Choosing Sustainability: My Journey with Single-Use Water Bottles

 MOHAMAD AZIQ BIN MOHAMAD DERUS (2325705)

MY EXPERIENCE

    As a university student, convenience frequently influences daily decisions. One habit I formed early on was buying bottled mineral water instead of a reusable water bottle. While it appeared innocent at first, I eventually understood how wasteful and unsustainable this habit was. Reflecting on this habit has taught me great lessons about sustainability and resource management.

            Before entering university, I never considered the consequences of purchasing bottled water. It was something I'd seen everyone do, so it felt natural. I assumed it was handier and more hygienic than bringing a reusable bottle. I didn't anticipate the cost or environmental ramifications of using single-use plastic bottles.

            On the study time in the university, my reliance on bottled water increased. A day with full schedule of classes and activities, the most convenient option seemed to be grabbing a bottle from the nearest store. However, before I knew it, I was standing in front of the pile of empty plastic bottles on my floor. It was then that I realized how much waste I was producing and if this was really something I was supposed to be doing.

Financially, I was aware that I was spending more than I thought. It was a straightforward calculation that showed how much money spent on bottled water every month could have been spent on other required things, such as food or study materials. Besides the cost, I was more aware of the environmental implication. Every bottle I discarded was contributing to the plastic waste problem in the world, which destroys habitats and takes centuries to degrade.

In order to solve this issue, I bought a refillable water bottle and made a habit of using it daily. It was difficult at first to remember to bring it along, and sometimes I reverted to purchasing bottled water. Nevertheless, with persistent practice, the use of the refillable bottle became automatic.

After a few days, the transition to a reusable bottle has been revolutionary. I've not only saved money, but also dramatically reduced the quantity of plastic waste I produce. This tiny shift has taught me the value of being mindful of my consumption and making sustainable decisions.

In conclusion, this experience has taught me that making little changes is the first step toward sustainability. Choosing a reusable bottle over single-use plastic is a simple step, but it can have a significant impact in the long run. It has motivated me to implement more sustainable behaviors and reminded me of the importance of human responsibility in tackling environmental issues.