History of the Problem

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   "Drinking bottled water has been around since the early 1700’s, however did not gain popularity until the 1960’s when high-density polyethylene was introduced and plastic become the preferred choice for bottling water" (Tyson 1). This began the bottled water battle between large soft drink companies, as drinking water became a cheap and healthy alternative to soft drinks. The bottled water industry boom began in the early 1980s and has had large growth ever since. Companies advertised bottled water as cleaner, safer and more purified than tap water and water was transported from glaciers and natural springs. "In Canada 8% of bottled water comes from municipal water supplies, while Coca-Cola and Pepsi, two of the biggest manufacturers of bottled water and are essentially supplying treated tap water" (Stastna 3).  Advertising was successful and consumers continue to believe that drinking water is a healthier choice.