Sep 10, 2008 11:28 pm US/Eastern
Senators Study The Truth Behind Bottled Water
WASHINGTON (WJZ) ―
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Is bottled water more pure than what comes out of the tap? Senators held a hearing Wednesday to learn more.
CBS
Is bottled water more pure than what comes out of the tap?
Kai Jackson reports senators held a hearing Wednesday to learn more.
The bottled water industry testified its products are safe, convenient and healthy. But critics say for the cost it's a lot of hype.
"Most bottled water companies market that their water comes from fresh, pure mountain streams. But the truth is almost 30% of it comes straight from the tap," said Kristi Horvath with Maryland Public Interest Research Group.
Currently bottled water is only regulated by the FDA. City systems must comply with a higher standard set by the EPA.
"We are constantly sampling our water and analyzing our water to ensure we are meeting federal, as well as state regulations," said Deborah Pitts with Baltimore Public Works.
Some consumers say they didn't know municipal water must comply with more stringent rules, especially when they hear advertising about purity.
"Well, I would probably not drink the bottled water because the reasons I'm probably drinking the bottled water is because I thought it would be cleaner than tap water," said Dan Crowley.
Wednesday's Senate hearing wasn't only about the quality of bottled water, but also where those plastic bottles end up when they are discarded.
Since 2002, bottled water sales have risen 45 percent. Now 30 gallons per person is consumed per year. While some recycle, many others toss it out.
"We see the bottles from the water, the plastic bags. [They all] take a long time to degrade," said boater Miles Curry.
Some cities are now refusing to buy bottled water. Some universities are campaigning against it. Bottlers say it's better than soda and in emergencies it's necessary. Now Congress will decide if it should take a closer look.
Some environmental advocates say there should be a deposit on water bottles to reduce litter.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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