Penny for your water

(image found on Flickr via City Water)

I just came across this article on the TapIt water blog, which I've referenced before for their initiative of placing water refilling stations in cafes and stores around the city. TapIt reports that Michigan's governor, Jennifer Granholm is trying to pass a bill that would place a penny tax on bottled water. Her proposal is being challenged of course by the International Bottled Water Association and brings up a valid question. In Michigan's slow economy, could a single cent inhibit people from purchasing a bottle of water and instead encourage them to opt for the tap? I certanly hope so.

TapIt

I was sitting on the steps in Union Square just now eating lunch, when a girl with fringe cut bangs came over with a survey asking me to fill it out. I thought, oh god, not another help the children, help the lesbians, help the homeless people spiel. Although all very worthy causes, they usually talk your ear off and then ask for money, which I wasn't in the mood for. The survey introduced a service called TapIt, and after reading what they offered, could not believe it didn't exist yet. TapIt is a water bottle refilling network which allows New Yorkers access to free water on the go. Establishments sign up to become "partners" with TapIt and offer free water bottle refilling stations. There's an application that you can look up on your phone when you're on the street and the locations where TapIt is offered pop up! I love the idea. My only downfall in buying bottled water is the convenience and it seems it could be completely resolved with this.