Evironmental Questions for a water sommelier

1. Bottled water has such a huge carbon footprint

Yes, bottled beverages do have an environmental impact, but bottled water has one of the lowest carbon footprints compared to other bottled drinks. Unlike sugary drinks that need a lot of processing, natural bottled water comes directly from the source with minimal handling. This keeps its overall impact lower. Plus, many small bottled water companies work hard to protect their sources and the surrounding environment. When talking about bottled water, it's important to see the difference between big companies that overuse water resources and small producers that care for their sources. By choosing to support eco-friendly and responsible practices, we can enjoy fine water and still work to protect our planet.

2. We should eliminate bottled water to address plastic pollution

Plastic pollution is a serious problem, but removing bottled water alone won't fix it. The focus should be on better recycling and using sustainable materials. Bottled water is a healthier option than sugary drinks, which also come in plastic bottles. Moreover, improving tap water systems worldwide could cut down plastic use by up to 50%, as more people would rely on safe tap water.

3. Why does it make sense to ship water from Fiji if you have tap water?

Tap water is great for staying hydrated if it's clean and safe where you live. But bottled water offers a different experience, like tasting fine wine. Each water source around the world has its own unique taste and minerals. Drinking water from a place like Fiji means tasting water with a specific flavor and background that you can't get elsewhere. It's more about enjoying the unique qualities of water, not just basic hydration. Shipping processed sugary drinks worldwide is much worse for the environment. And its not healthy!

4. Isn't it very elitist to be a water sommelier when so many people have no access to safe drinking water?

It's important to focus on solving the global water crisis and ensuring everyone has safe water. Being a water sommelier and appreciating fine water doesn't take away from that. Just like enjoying fine wine or gourmet food exists alongside fighting hunger, water tasting celebrates the different qualities of water. Supporting small, responsible bottled water companies can help protect water sources and the environment. Highlighting the uniqueness of water can also raise awareness for the need to protect it globally.

Conclusion

When talking about bottled water, it's important to see the difference between big companies that overuse water resources and small producers that care for their sources. Fine water tasting is about enjoying water's unique qualities, like tasting fine wine. By choosing to support eco-friendly and responsible practices, we can enjoy fine water and still work to protect our planet.