Recently, concerns have been raised about chemicals, including bisphenol–A and phthalates, leaching into drinking water from plastic water bottles. Some retailers in the USA and Canada have voluntarily withdrawn polycarbonate water bottles from sale due to uncertainty regarding their safety. Click here for further details on plastic in baby bottles and here for information on plastic bottle withdrawals from Canadian retailers.

Bisphenol A is a major ingredient used in the production of hard plastics such as polycarbonate. It may be associated with nervous system and behavioural changes in babies and children. As it may mimic or block reproductive hormone activity, it may also be associated with prostate and breast problems and early puberty in females.

Phthalates are used as softeners in flexible plastics. As they may mimic or block hormone activity, they may be associated with reproductive problems. Some have been classified as either possible or probable human carcinogens by the U.S. EPA.

While glass is the preferred material for water containers, it is not always practical to use due to it’s weight and breakage concerns. For those times when glass is an unsuitable choice, building biologists recommend the Aquifer Safe-T-Bottle, a plastic bottle which does not contain chemicals which could contaminate drinking water.