Boxed Water vs. Just Water
Comparing Sustainability and Taste
In recent years, the eco-conscious consumer has faced a choice between different types of water packaging options, notably between brands like Boxed Water and Just Water. Both companies have positioned themselves as sustainable alternatives to traditional bottled water, which has long been criticized for its environmental impact due to the use of single-use plastic bottles. Boxed Water containers are comprised mostly of paper with a small amount of plastic and aluminum, aimed to reduce reliance on the petroleum-based plastics that dominate the bottled water industry.
Just Water also takes a stand for sustainability, offering water in a paper-based carton combined with a sugarcane-based cap. The brand emphasizes its low-carbon footprint and the use of renewable materials in its packaging. With both Boxed Water and Just Water striving to offer a more environmentally friendly product, consumers are given the opportunity to choose water that aligns with their personal values concerning sustainability and environmental responsibility.
The debate on whether Boxed Water or Just Water is the better option often centers around the environmental impact, packaging materials, the carbon footprint associated with production and transportation, and the practical aspects of usage, such as convenience and taste. This comparison highlights the increasing demand for products that not only serve the needs of consumers but also take into account the well-being of the planet, signaling a shift in consumer behavior towards environmental consciousness.
Understanding Boxed Water
In this section, the focus is on Boxed Water - a company offering an alternative to traditional plastic bottled water, its commitment to sustainability, and how its packaging may impact the environment.
What is Boxed Water?
Boxed Water Is Better is a company that offers water in cartons as a substitute for the conventional plastic water bottle. Founded in 2009, they were the pioneers to market water in paper-based cartons with an aim to provide a more eco-friendly product.
Packaging and Material Use
The packaging of Boxed Water's product consists of a composite of sustainable paper (74%), aluminum (1%), and plastic film (25%). The cartons are designed to be recyclable and are sourced from sustainable forests. Furthermore, the paper component is FSC-certified, indicating it meets criteria for sustainable forestry practices.
Paper: 74%
Aluminum: 1%
Plastic Film: 25%
Environmental Advantages
Boxed Water claims certain environmental advantages by focusing on having a lower carbon footprint compared to traditional plastic bottles. Their cartons are transported flat to the filler, which can reduce greenhouse gas emissions due to more efficient shipping. The company also highlights that their cartons are made from renewable resources and places an emphasis on maintaining a sustainable business model through responsible sourcing and manufacturing practices. Their recycling initiatives aim to decrease their impact on the environment, in alignment with a growing consumer demand for greener products.
Exploring Just Water
Just Water offers an alternative to traditional bottled water with a focus on sustainability and reducing the carbon footprint. This section will delve into the specifics of Just Water's practices and benefits.
What is Just Water?
Just Water is a brand that distributes water in eco-conscious packaging. They emphasize the use of renewable resources and have a stated commitment to reducing their carbon footprint through their product lifecycle, from sourcing to packaging.
Packaging and Sustainability
The packaging of Just Water is designed with sustainability in mind. It is primarily composed of 82% renewable resources, including paper from sustainably managed forests and a plant-based cap. Their bottles are 100% recyclable, supporting the closed-loop recycling system, which aims to minimize waste.
Materials Used in Just Water Packaging:
Paper from sustainably managed forests
Plant-based plastic for the cap
Bio-based plastic liner
These materials contribute to the overall reduction of the brand's carbon footprint, as the production of these components often requires less carbon emissions compared to traditional plastic.
Environmental Benefits
Just Water's environmental initiatives extend beyond just recyclable packaging. They aim to contribute positively to the ecosystem by:
Reducing Carbon Emissions: By opting for materials that have a lower carbon footprint compared to conventional plastics, Just Water mitigates its environmental impact.
Promoting Recyclability: The full bottle is recyclable, encouraging consumers to dispose of their products responsibly.
Avoiding Greenwashing: Transparency in their sustainability claims is a core ethos of Just Water, aiming to present their green initiatives without exaggeration.
By centering their brand around these principals, Just Water positions itself as a sustainable alternative within the bottled water market.
Comparative Analysis
This section provides a detailed evaluation focusing on the material composition, environmental impact, and end-of-life considerations of Boxed Water and JUST Water packaging.
Material Comparison
Boxed Water packaging primarily comprises 74% paper, 1% aluminum, and 25% plastic, according to search results on Boxed Water. JUST Water boasts a bottle made mainly of paper sourced from sustainably managed forests, with a plant-based cap derived from sugarcane. Both brands aim to reduce the usage of plastic, but JUST Water emphasizes a majority paper-based container with a plant-based cap while Boxed Water includes a mix of paper, aluminum, and plastic.
Feature Boxed Water JUST Water Paper 74% Majority component Plastic 25% Cap (plant-based) Aluminum 1% Not specified Cap Material Plastic Plant-based sugarcane
Sustainability Index
Assessing the sustainability impact, both companies conduct life cycle analyses (LCA) to minimize their carbon footprint. The companies strive to offer a more sustainable alternative to traditional bottled water, focusing on reducing carbon emissions and energy consumption. Boxed Water uses a three-step purification process and claims a fully recyclable carton with 76% paper composition. JUST Water touts its 82% renewable content. While both companies leverage recyclability as a key sustainable feature, JUST Water's higher content of renewable materials may indicate a reduced environmental impact.
Recycling and Reusability
Boxed Water's cartons are recyclable, where facilities exist, and consist of recycled content. The blend of paper, aluminum, and plastic allows for a waterproof and sealed package but can complicate the recycling process. JUST Water encourages the reuse of their bottles before recycling and states that their packaging is fully recyclable. Even though reuse is an option, the life span of both products as reusable water bottles is limited when compared to dedicated, more durable reusable bottles made of materials like stainless steel or glass.
Aspect Boxed Water JUST Water Recyclability Recyclable (facility-dependent) Fully recyclable Reusable Limited due to material structure Encouraged before recycling Recycled Content Yes Not specified Impact on Recycling Mixed materials may complicate Higher renewable content, less impact
Health and Safety Considerations
When considering the health and safety of Boxed Water and Just Water, consumers should focus on water purity, potential contaminants, and the materials used in packaging.
Water Purity and Contaminants
The quality of drinking water can directly influence health. Boxed Water purifies its water using ultraviolet light, carbon filtration, and reverse osmosis, eliminating impurities and potential contaminants. Similarly, Just Water also relies on thorough filtration techniques to provide purified water. Both brands are typically free from chlorine and fluoride, unlike standard tap water, which commonly includes these additives for sanitization and dental health benefits.
Feature Boxed Water Just Water Filtration Process UV, Carbon, Reverse Osmosis Advanced Filtration Chlorine Absent Absent Fluoride Absent Absent
Packaging and Chemicals
Packaging materials are a significant health consideration. Boxed Water is encased in a 100% recyclable carton made primarily of paper along with a plant-based plastic lining to ensure waterproofing. Just Water's packaging is similarly environmentally conscious, using a paper-based bottle with a bio-plastic cap, derived from sugarcane. Both Boxed Water and Just Water claim to be BPA-free, reducing the risk of chemical leaching associated with certain plastics.
Boxed Water: Utilizes a blend of 74% paper, 1% aluminum, and 25% plastic film for packaging.
Just Water: Emphasizes a bio-plastic cap and majority paper-based design.
Concerns around packaging often revolve around the potential leaching of chemicals such as BPA or polyethylene from the lining. Both companies address these concerns by using safer materials and tout their containers as BPA-free.
Consumer Experience
When consumers evaluate Boxed Water and Just Water, they often consider how the product's convenience and design enhance their user experience. These factors often determine repeat purchases and consumer loyalty.
Convenience and Usability
Packaging: Both Boxed Water and Just Water feature plant-based cartons that are designed for ease of use. Unlike glass bottles, these cartons are lightweight, reducing the effort needed to carry them during travel.
Portability: The structural design of boxed water allows for more efficient use of space in bags or cup holders, making them a preferred choice for consumers on the move.
Lid: Just Water boasts a flip-cap lid, which is often commended for its convenience, as it can be easily opened with one hand.
Design and Brand Appeal
Minimalist Design: Both brands have adopted a minimalist aesthetic in their branding. Their clean design and muted color palette resonate with consumers looking for sleek and modern products.
Sustainability: Sales and brand loyalty are influenced by the companies' commitment to sustainability. Boxed Water's cartons are certified to be 92% plant-based, and Just Water's packaging is 82% made from renewable resources, which appeals to environmentally conscious customers.
Brand Message: The clear and neutral branding focuses on the product's purity and sustainability, enhancing its appeal among consumers who prioritize these values.
Corporate Responsibility and Partnerships
Boxed Water and Just Water emphasize their commitments to sustainability and active partnerships that contribute to environmental stewardship. Both companies have engaged in efforts to present their products as eco-friendly alternatives to traditional plastic water bottles.
Sustainability Claims and Certifications
Boxed Water boasts a carton composed of 74% paper, with their paper sourced from sustainably managed forests, and is FSC-certified, indicating adherence to rigorous environmental and social standards. On the other hand, Just Water employs a carton that is 82% renewable, combining paper with a plant-based plastic cap. Both products highlight their use of materials designed to reduce their carbon footprint and promote sustainability.
Partnerships for Change
Boxed Water has engaged in partnerships that align with their corporate responsibility goals, such as a collaboration with Alaska Airlines to reduce in-flight plastic waste. Similarly, Just Water has sought out partnerships that underscore its commitment to positive change, working with communities to sustainably source water and support local economies. These partnerships reflect each company's commitment to not only providing an eco-friendly product but also to fostering broader environmental stewardship.
Market Analysis
In assessing the bottled water market, one must consider the dynamic consumer preferences and the fierce competition that companies like Boxed Water and Just Water face. These factors dictate market trends and shape the industry's future.
Consumer Trends
Consumer behavior indicates a growing preference for sustainable and eco-friendly products. Sales data suggests a substantial market segment is willing to pay a premium for water brands that demonstrate environmental stewardship. The shift towards sustainability has led to an increased demand for alternative packaging, such as boxed water, which typically uses paper-based composite cartons. Reusable bottles have also gained traction as consumers seek to minimize their environmental impact, which could marginally undercut sales of single-use bottled water products.
Additionally, discerning consumers are increasingly looking beyond packaging, evaluating the water source's sustainability and the brand's overall commitment to environmental practices. Demand for products advertising a lower carbon footprint has risen, with a notable segment preferring tap water over bottled alternatives when safe and palatable options are available.
Competition and Alternatives
The bottled water industry, once dominated by brands like Poland Spring, is now facing disruption from alternatives like Boxed Water and Just Water. The competition among water brands has intensified as they strive for differentiation, primarily through eco-friendly practices and innovative packaging solutions.
Water Brand Packaging Material Eco-Friendly Initiatives Boxed Water 74% paper, 1% aluminum, 25% plastic Paper-based, recyclable cartons Just Water 88% plant-based materials Forest Stewardship Council certified
Despite the increased focus on sustainability, sales remain robust for both traditional bottled water and its eco-conscious counterparts, indicating that while there is competition from tap water and reusable bottles, the demand for convenience plays a significant role in consumer choice. Brands are consistently challenged to balance economic viability with environmental responsibility in order to maintain and grow their market share in this essential sector.
Environmental and Global Impact
The manufacturing and disposal of bottled water significantly affect the environment, contributing to global warming and resource depletion. Companies strive for sustainability by minimizing their ecological footprint through reduced emissions and more efficient waste management.
Climate Change and Carbon Emissions
Boxed Water: It boasts a carbon footprint 36% lower than that of plastic bottles, primarily due to its 92% plant-based packaging. The production process leverages renewable energy to decrease greenhouse gas emissions.
Just Water: Their bottle, made from 82% renewable resources, including sugar cane, also focuses on lowering carbon emissions. Just Water asserts that its practices help reduce fossil fuel use, directly impacting global warming.
Table: Carbon Footprint Comparison
Criteria Boxed Water Just Water Packaging Renewability 92% 82% Energy Source Renewable Renewable Carbon Footprint Reduction 36% (compared to plastic) Specific measurement not provided
Resource Use and Waste Management
Boxed Water: Their containers are made primarily from paper, which comes from sustainably managed forests, suggesting a more responsible approach to resource use. Regarding waste, boxed water cartons are recyclable where facilities are available, potentially reducing landfill impact.
Just Water: They emphasize a circular approach, encouraging the use of recyclable materials and supporting ocean cleanup initiatives to address the persistent waste problem affecting marine ecosystems.
List: Key Points in Waste Management
Sustainability Efforts:
Both companies utilize materials intended to be more sustainable than traditional plastic.
Recycling and Oceans:
Recycling options are growing but remain dependent on local infrastructure.
Marine pollution reduction is a target for Just Water through cleanup support.
Landfills:
Both brands pose less dependency on landfills provided consumers adhere to recycling recommendations.
Conclusion and Recommendations
Deciding between Boxed Water and Just Water involves weighing sustainability and environmental impact. Boxed Water is packaged in cartons made of 74% paper, 1% aluminum, and 25% plastic, designed to be recyclable. Its filtration process includes ultraviolet, carbon, and reverse-osmosis, offering a product free from BPA—a chemical often associated with plastic containers.
Just Water commits to a high percentage of sustainably sourced materials, comprising 82% renewable resources, reflected in its plant-based cap and sugarcane-derived bottle body.
Both companies encourage recycling, but consumers should verify local facilities' capabilities to handle such materials as not all recycling centers accept the composite materials used in boxed cartons. When considering the overall environmental impact, one must note that production, transportation, and end-of-life disposal all play roles.
Recommendations for consumers:
Prioritize local recycling rules when choosing between Boxed Water and Just Water
Consider the lifecycle environmental footprint, which includes transportation
Contemplate personal use—if convenience and reusability are important, opt for the option that suits these needs while remaining environmentally mindful
For manufacturers:
Continue efforts in increasing the sustainability of packaging
Innovate recycling technologies to keep pace with composite packaging solutions
Transparently communicate the environmental impact of products to consumers
Both Boxed Water and Just Water display initiatives towards sustainability. Consumers seeking an eco-friendly alternative to traditional bottled water have viable options in both brands. However, personal preferences, recycling availability, and awareness of each product's environmental footprint will guide the final decision.
