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If You Must Drink Soda, Go to the Soda Fountain

Josh Peterson

By Josh Peterson
Fayetteville, AR, USA | Mon Oct 13, 2008 07:00 AM ET

soda fountain photo


Joe Raedle/Getty Images

Bottled water gets a bad rap because the plastic packaging that holds the water is so wasteful, and fresh, clean water is so easily obtainable from the kitchen tap. Well, what about soda bottles? They are just as bad for the environment, and all that sugar will attract bees. Soda is also very unhealthy.

Not to hammer this point too hard, but America is in the midst of an obesity epidemic. Soda is a huge source of empty calories. You can drink a bottle of sweet-tasting soda and still have room to down a sandwich or something, and the soda will have as many calories as the entree. Soda should really be a treat, not something that is served with every meal.

If you must drink soda, then you should at least drink it while being mindful of the environment. Soda fountains still exist. Many of them are at gas stations and convenience stores. Instead of buying wasteful pop bottles, fill up a thermos or a filling station-logo adorned mug with soda. This will cut on waste and packaging.

Recycle soda bottles if you do drink from them. Don't forget, however, that recycling takes energy. It's best not to use something that you do not need in the first place. It might be a hassle to travel from your couch to a soda fountain everyday, but it is good exercise. That's great news because soda is terrible for you.

More on Reducing Plastic Waste:
Get to Know Your Recyclable Plastics by Number
Kick the Plastic Bottle Habit
Bring Your Own: Workplace Essentials

 
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