Activists launched a campaign today in Portland to encourage people to drink tap water instead of bottled water.

Take Back the Tap and Peace Action Maine are encouraging local restaurants to ask their customers to make the switch.

Supporters of the campaign also believe Maine should spend more to protect its watersheds and public drinking water supplies.

Restaurants accepting the bottled-water challenge include North Star Music Café, Ruski's and Empire Dine and Dance.

Anna Maria Tocci, owner of the North Star Café, said the fuel used and the waste created in the production and delivery of bottled water make it incompatible with her restaurant's commitment to sustainability.

"Our customers come to us because they want to eat local, and they want to drink local, too, so I think they'll really appreciate it," Tocci said.

On Monday, the Portland City Council passed a Take Back the Tap resolution to support investment in public water systems.