As the world becomes more plastic-aware and Malta’s hot temperatures remain very present, it is important to find more ways in which we can decrease our plastic footprint - and decreasing our plastic bottle could definitely be one of them.

Because drinking tap water in Malta is not really a thing, most of us rely on bottled water when we are out and about. Although recycling these bottles later is a great option in comparison to throwing them in an ordinary bin, it is the lesser of two evils, with the best option being to avoid using the plastic altogether.

Here are a few ways in which we can reduce our plastic-bottle footprint in Malta (and beyond!)

1. Buy a refillable stainless steel water bottle

They cost under €20 but can save you money in the long run, and more importantly, decrease your plastic bottle usage. Besides that, they lack chemicals found in plastic bottles which are known to be harmful. Stainless steel is much more durable than plastic, since plastic bottles are made to be used only a few times, and besides, stainless steel will also insulate your drink for longer periods, keeping it hot or cold after it is put into the bottle.

2. Fill water from refillable tanks and water fountains around the island

Although not prevalent throughout the whole island, you can refill your reusable water bottle at a number of refillable tanks and water fountains found in some locations. There are water tanks at the University of Malta, the Airport and on the Sliema promenade. Some shops, such as The Grassy Hopper in Valletta and Sliema, refill water bottles from their reverse osmosis tap. Oh, and water refill machines are also popping up in petrol stations! There is one in front of Manoel Island and one at Wembley petrol station in Pembroke among others, where you can refill your bottle for as little as 10c per litre.

3. Buy a water-filter to keep in your fridge

Although tap water is deemed good to drink in Malta, it is still not really embraced by the majority. Buying a water filter which you keep in your fridge is a great way to make tap water more palatable, and you can use the newly-filtered water to fill your reusable bottle prior to going out! A water filter can cleanse tap water further, and one with an infuser built in may make the taste of the water more desirable by adding flavour from lemon slices or mint leaves, amongst others.

4. If you must use a water bottle... make sure you recycle it

If you find yourself in a situation where you must use a plastic bottle, try and make the extra effort to recycle it. If recycling bins are not found in your immediate surroundings, keep the bottle until you do find a recycling bin or you are in a place where you can throw it in a recycling bag.