Indonesia scientists warn BPA risk from reusable polycarbonate bottles

Polycarbonate water bottles, widely used for reusable drinking water, degrade over time when exposed to ultraviolet light, high temperatures, friction from washing and repeated use. The degradation breaks polymer chains, increasing the likelihood that bisphenol A (BPA) – a known endocrine‑disrupting chemical – migrates into the water.

Prof. Mochamad Chalid of the University of Indonesia explains that the material should be reused no more than about 40 times, roughly one year if refilled weekly, because beyond this limit the risk of BPA release rises sharply. Prof. Junaidi Khotib, dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy at Universitas Airlangga, warns that BPA exposure can affect the endocrine system and has been linked to long‑term kidney disease. Both experts advise limiting the lifespan of polycarbonate reusable bottles and increasing public awareness of the health risks associated with prolonged reuse.