Glass water bottle hanging from backpack with nature behind glass water bottle hanging from backpack in nature

The History of the Water Bottle: From Glass to Plastic to Stainless Steel Water Bottles

Introduction: A Brief History of the Water Bottle

Water bottles have been around for centuries, with the first known examples dating back to ancient Egypt and Greece. In the past, water bottles were typically made of materials such as glass or ceramic, which were heavy and fragile. As a result, they were not very practical for everyday use and were mainly used for transporting water over short distances.

plastic bottles on blue background

When Was the First Water Bottle Invented?

The practice of bottling and transporting water has ancient roots so it's hard to say exactly when the first water bottle was invented. Historical evidence shows that early human civilisations developed various kinds of vessels to carry water- ranging from animal skins to clay pots. However, it became a formalised industry in the United Kingdom in the early 17th century.

The first recorded instance of water bottling occurred at the Holy Well (a pool of water which was thought to have healing properties) in 1622, located in the United Kingdom with people from various regions making religious pilgrimages to the site.

Recognising the commercial potential, entrepreneurs began bottling the water from the Holy Well to sell to those who could not make the journey.

The technology for bottling water during this period was rudimentary compared to today's standards. Glass bottles sealed with cork were the primary containers used. These bottles were then transported by horse-drawn carriages, limiting the reach of distribution. However, the practice laid the groundwork for the modern bottled water industry.

From Glass and Ceramic to Plastic: The Evolution of the Water Bottle

The transition from heavy, fragile materials such as glass and ceramic to lightweight and durable plastic has had a significant impact on the way that people use and consume water. Prior to the 20th century, water bottles were mainly made of materials such as glass or ceramic, which were heavy and easily breakable. As a result, they were not very practical for everyday use and were mainly used for transporting water over short distances.

The introduction of plastic in the 20th century revolutionized the water bottle industry. Plastic bottles were lightweight, durable, and inexpensive to produce, making them the preferred choice for most consumers. The widespread use of plastic water bottles has allowed people to easily carry water with them wherever they go, making it more convenient to stay hydrated throughout the day.

In addition to the practical benefits of plastic water bottles, the shift to plastic has also had economic and cultural impacts. The production and sale of plastic water bottles have created new industries and job opportunities, and the popularity of water bottles has contributed to the development of global water culture. Today, it is common to see people carrying water bottles with them in many different settings, from the workplace to the gym to outdoor activities.

Overall, the transition from heavy, fragile materials to lightweight and durable plastic has greatly impacted the way that people use and consume water, making it more convenient and accessible. However, the widespread use of plastic water bottles has also had significant environmental consequences, which has led to a shift towards more sustainable alternatives such as stainless steel.

The Negative Impacts of Plastic Water Bottles: Pollution, Climate Change, and Harm to Marine Life

The use of plastic water bottles has had significant negative impacts on the environment and the oceans. One major concern is pollution, as billions of plastic bottles end up in landfills or oceans each year. In landfills, plastic bottles can take hundreds of years to decompose, leading to long-term pollution of the environment. In the oceans, plastic bottles and other debris can harm marine life and disrupt ecosystems. Fish, birds, and other animals can become entangled in plastic or mistake it for food, leading to injury or death.

The production of plastic water bottles also has significant environmental consequences. The production of plastic requires large amounts of fossil fuels, which contribute to climate change and other environmental problems. In addition, the transportation of plastic bottles from the point of production to the point of sale also requires the use of fossil fuels, adding to the carbon footprint of these products.

plastic water bottles thrown away on rocks in front of a mountain
plastic water bottle floating in light blue sea

Another negative impact of plastic water bottles is their potential to leach chemicals into the water. Some types of plastic, such as polycarbonate, contain a chemical called BPA, which has been linked to negative health effects. While many water bottles now claim to be BPA-free, there are concerns about other chemicals that may be present in plastic bottles and the potential long-term impacts on human health.

Overall, the negative impacts of plastic water bottles on the environment and the oceans are a major concern. To reduce these impacts, it is important to reduce our reliance on plastic water bottles and adopt more sustainable alternatives, such as stainless steel water bottles.

The Rise of Stainless Steel Water Bottles: A More Sustainable Alternative

In light of these negative impacts, it is important to reduce our reliance on plastic water bottles and adopt more sustainable alternatives. Stainless steel water bottles are a great option, as they are durable, reusable, and environmentally friendly. By using a stainless steel water bottle instead of a plastic one, you can help to protect the environment and the oceans, while also reducing your own carbon footprint.

In recent years, there has been a shift towards more sustainable options for water bottles, such as stainless steel. Stainless steel water bottles are durable, reusable, and environmentally friendly, as they can be used for many years before needing to be replaced. They are also safe and non-toxic, as they do not contain chemicals such as BPA that can leach into the water.

As more and more people become aware of the environmental impact of plastic water bottles, the demand for sustainable alternatives such as stainless steel has increased. Brands such as Just Bottle have emerged, offering a wide range of stylish and high-quality stainless steel water bottles that are perfect for everyday use.

Choose a Stainless Steel Water Bottle to Protect the Environment and the Oceans

In conclusion, the history of the water bottle has evolved over time, with materials and designs changing to meet the needs of consumers. Today, the trend is towards more sustainable options such as stainless steel, which offer numerous benefits for both the user and the environment. If you are looking for a sustainable water bottle that will last for years to come, consider investing in a stainless steel water bottle from a reputable brand such as Just Bottle.

people sitting on a pebble beach in summer

The benefits of using a stainless steel water bottle

Keeping drinks cold or hot for longer

Many stainless steel water bottles, such as our Just Bottle Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle, are made with insulation, which helps to keep drinks cold or hot for extended periods of time. This can be especially convenient when you are on the go and don't have access to a refrigerator or microwave.

Reducing plastic waste

One of the biggest benefits of using a stainless steel water bottle is that it reduces plastic waste. Single-use plastic bottles are a major contributor to plastic pollution, which has negative impacts on the environment and marine life. By choosing a stainless steel water bottle, such as our Just Bottle Stainless Steel Water Bottle, you can help to reduce this pollution and protect the planet for future generations.

Saving money

A stainless steel water bottle is typically more durable and long-lasting than disposable plastic bottles, which means that you can save money in the long run by not constantly having to replace it.

black stainless steel water bottle being filled at a water station at the beach
pink stainless steel water bottle carried with ocean in background

Convenience

A stainless steel water bottle is often more convenient than a disposable one, with features such as leak-proof caps and an easy-to-carry handle that makes it perfect for everyday use.

Style

A stainless steel water bottle comes in a wide range of styles and colours, so you can choose one that fits your personal taste and style.

Health benefits

Some studies have suggested that using a stainless steel water bottle may have health benefits, as it can encourage people to drink more water and stay hydrated. Proper hydration is important for overall health and wellness, as it can help to regulate body temperature, flush out toxins, and support proper organ function.

The Environmental Benefits of Using a Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Chemical leaching:


According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), "BPA is an industrial chemical that has been used to make certain plastics and resins since the 1960s. Its widespread use has raised concerns because it is an endocrine disruptor, which means it can interfere with the body's hormone system and cause harmful health effects. BPA can seep into food or beverages from containers that are made with it. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has said that BPA is safe at the low levels that occur in some foods, but several studies have suggested otherwise."
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), "BPA is a synthetic estrogen that has been linked to a wide range of negative health effects, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and reproductive problems. While some water bottles are now marketed as BPA-free, there are concerns about other chemicals that may be present in plastic bottles and the potential long-term impacts on human health."

Durability and safety:


According to the International Association for Plastics Distribution (IAPD), "Stainless steel is extremely durable and long-lasting, making it a popular choice for water bottles and other containers. It is also resistant to corrosion, which means that it will not rust or degrade over time. In addition, stainless steel is a safer material for food and beverage containers, as it does not contain chemicals that can leach into your water or other substances. This makes it a healthier and more hygienic option compared to some types of plastic."

Environmental impacts:


According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), "The production of plastic requires large amounts of fossil fuels, which contribute to climate change and other environmental problems. In addition, plastic waste can have negative impacts on wildlife and the environment, as it can take hundreds of years to break down and decompose. In contrast, stainless steel is a more sustainable material, as it is 100% recyclable and requires fewer resources to produce. Using stainless steel products can help to reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future."

person standing on a rock with green mountains behind

The Importance of Individual Action in Creating a More Sustainable World

As individuals, we all have the power to make a difference in creating a more sustainable world. Small actions, such as choosing a reusable water bottle instead of a disposable one, can add up to have a significant impact. By making conscious choices about the products we use and how we consume resources, we can reduce our own environmental footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.

One of the benefits of using a reusable water bottle is that it reduces the amount of plastic waste that ends up in landfills and oceans. Single-use plastic bottles are a major contributor to plastic pollution, which has negative impacts on the environment and marine life. By choosing a reusable water bottle, you can help to reduce this pollution and protect the planet for future generations.

In addition to the environmental benefits, using a reusable water bottle also has practical advantages. Reusable bottles are typically more durable and long-lasting than disposable plastic bottles, which means that you can save money in the long run by not constantly having to replace them. Reusable bottles are also often more stylish and convenient, with features such as insulation and leak-proof caps that make them perfect for everyday use.

Ultimately, the key to creating a more sustainable world is collective action. By making conscious choices and encouraging others to do the same, we can create a ripple effect that leads to positive change. So, if you want to make a difference and contribute to a more sustainable future, consider switching to a reusable water bottle and encouraging others to do the same. Every small action counts!

grey stainless steel water bottle on sand with waves splashing over

Just Bottle's Commitment to Sustainability: Reducing Plastic Pollution and Minimizing Environmental Impact

At Just Bottle, we are committed to creating high-quality, sustainable products that help to reduce the negative impacts of single-use plastic on the environment. Our water bottles are designed to be reusable, making it easy for customers to ditch disposable plastic bottles and reduce their environmental footprint.

We also believe in taking an active role in addressing the problem of plastic pollution, which is why we fund the collection of ocean plastic from coastline communities with no recycling in place. Every sale of our products includes a contribution to beach clean-up projects around the world, which are traceable through our partner organizations.

Our commitment to sustainability extends to our business practices as well. We have a third-party warehouse in the UK, with plans to expand to other locations in the future. By using warehouses in multiple locations, we are able to deliver our products efficiently while also minimizing our carbon footprint. We have also installed solar panels on the roof of our warehouse, further reducing our environmental impact.

As founders, Millie and Sam, we were inspired to start Just Bottle after seeing the damage that single-use plastic bottles can cause to the oceans. We believe that it is important to do what is morally right and we are dedicated to providing a practical solution to the problem of plastic pollution. We all have a role to play in creating a more sustainable world, and we hope that our water bottles will help people to make a small but meaningful change in their daily lives.

Join the Movement for a More Sustainable Future with Just Bottle

Take the first step towards a more sustainable future by switching to a reusable stainless steel water bottle. At Just Bottle, we offer a range of high-quality, stylish, and convenient water bottles that are perfect for everyday use. By making the switch to a stainless steel water bottle, you can reduce your environmental footprint, save money, and stay healthy and hydrated on the go. Join the movement and make a difference today with Just Bottle.