Dear Editor:

The Town of Babylon is taking a strong stand on the environment and this sets a great example. I'm not sure if I agree with the Town's position of bottled water, though. First of all, drinking water instead of soft-drinks is probably one of the best things anyone can do for their health. The bottled water industry has helped encourage people to get into this good habit. If it wasn't for their marketing and distribution much less water would be consumed. The overall impact on society, looking at the health benefits as well as the decrease in manufacturing of soft-drinks, must be considered.

I live in the Town, and I drink tap water only with a filter. I still prefer bottled spring water because to me it tastes better. Public water must go through miles of steel pipe before reaching its destination. This often gives the water an "iron" taste, depending on the exact area you live in. Chlorine is often noticeable. The water tastes fine through a charcoal filter - the most common type used.

The Town should provide ample water fountains in convenient locations and the water should be filtered. To encourage people to drink from the fountains signs could state "filtered water." Without bottled water, people will often buy the closest thing available—soft drinks. What about these cans and bottles? Fountains are good, but you can't take one with you. I say yes to bottled water and anything that encourages people to drink the medically recommended 32- ounces a day.

Andy Tannenbaum, Amityville