Final answer:
Bottled water is roughly 700 times more expensive than tap water due to additional costs of packaging and transportation among other factors. It is not a sustainable option compared to tap water, which can be easily filtered at home for improved taste.
Step-by-step explanation:
Roughly, bottled water costs about 700 times more than tap water. While tap water is highly accessible and cost-effective, the expenses associated with bottled water include not just the product itself but also packaging, branding, and transportation. Considering the environmental impact, bottled water also consumes substantial energy resources, primarily through the manufacturing of bottles and the transportation processes. In contrast, tap water, which may require filtration to enhance taste, presents a more sustainable and cost-effective option. Home methods such as chlorination and solar disinfection are simple and inexpensive, providing clean water without the negative consequences associated with bottled water consumption.