Why Traditional Water Filters Aren’t as Sustainable as You Think—And 7 Ways That Phox Is Changing the Game

by Nicole Dewar

We all want clean, healthy water that tastes great. It’s why water filter jugs have become a household favourite—they’re easy, convenient, and help us stay hydrated while reducing limescale and other nasties.

The problem? Our planet doesn’t love them as much as we do.

Keep reading to discover why most water filters aren’t as eco-friendly as they might seem and how Phox Water is shaking things up with a more sustainable solution that’s better for you—and the Earth.

Aren’t All Water Filters Sustainable?

Not quite.

Sure, water filters help avoid single-use plastic bottles, but there’s a catch: cartridges that need replacing every month are a big problem for the planet.

Here’s why:

  • Most filter cartridges only last 30 days before they’re tossed in the bin.
  • You can’t recycle them through regular collections or even recycling centres.
  • As a result, millions of plastic cartridges end up in landfills every single year.
  • Plastic waste takes hundreds of years to break down. It pollutes ecosystems, harms wildlife, and contributes to climate change.

That’s why we created Phox—to give you clean water without the single-use plastic guilt.

Phox Refillable Filter Compared to Regular Water Filters

How Phox Water Filters Are Changing the Game

At Phox, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. Here’s what makes our filters better for you—and the planet:

1. Refillable, Reusable, and Ready to Reduce Waste

Most filters are single-use, but not ours. With Phox, you refill your cartridge with fresh filtration granules every 45 days or after filtering 200 litres of water.

Here’s how it works:

  • Keep the same outer cartridge.
  • Replace only the granules.
  • Enjoy clean water with a fraction of the plastic waste.

Already own a water filter jug? Good news—our refillable compatible cartridges are compatible with Brita Maxtra and Maxtra+ jugs. No need to buy a new jug—just make the sustainable switch.

Brita Maxtra Compatible Refillable Filter Cartridge

2. Lasts Longer Than Traditional Filters

Phox filters don’t just save plastic—they last longer, too.

  • Each Phox refill lasts 45 days or 200 litres.
  • That’s over two weeks longer than Brita and AmazonBasics filters.

Less waste for the planet. More savings for you. Simple.

3. Eco-Friendly Packaging (No Plastic Here!)

We believe sustainability isn’t just about the product—it’s about the packaging, too. That’s why we use:

  • Recyclable cardboard
  • Rice paper
  • Zero disposable plastic

Every box is perfectly sized to protect your items without using unnecessary materials. Minimal waste, maximum care.

Brita Maxtra Compatible Filter Refill Pack

4. Locally Made to Keep Our Carbon Footprint Low

Every Phox product is:

  • Designed, manufactured, and packaged within a 50-mile radius of our Glasgow HQ.
  • Made with locally sourced materials.

By keeping it local, we cut transportation emissions and reduce our environmental impact—plus, we support the local economy.

5. Natural Activated Carbon—Better for You and the Planet

Most filters use activated carbon made from fossil fuels like coal or petroleum. Phox does things differently.

We use activated carbon made from coconut shells—a natural, renewable alternative that produces far fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

6. Letterbox-Friendly for Hassle-Free Delivery

Most filters are bulky, which leads to missed deliveries and extra redelivery trips (and more emissions). Phox refill packs are:

  • Compact enough to fit through your letterbox.
  • Easier for you. Better for the planet.

Plus, we use carbon-efficient delivery options to keep our footprint as low as possible.

7. BPA-Free and Phthalate-Free Plastic

When we do use plastic, it’s always:

  • 100% BPA-free
  • Phthalate-free

This makes Phox products safer for you and your family while ensuring no harmful chemicals leach into water or damage aquatic ecosystems.

Make the Switch to a Sustainable Water Filter

The world doesn’t need more single-use plastic. Phox is here to help you enjoy clean, healthy water with less environmental impact.

Ready to join the refillable revolution?

SHOP PHOX