By signing this, you pledge to the following:

• I pledge to use reusable water bottles because drinking my local tap water is more sustainable than drinking from single-use, disposable plastic bottles, and doesn't promote water commodification.

• I pledge to resist water privatization because water is a human right and a natural resource that should not be controlled by corporations that put profits over people.
  
  
• I pledge to contact my local Congressperson when there is a vote to expand protections for water resources, implement water affordability programs, and revitalize infrastructure for safe tap water and sanitation.

What is water privatization?

Water privatization is what happens when private corporations buy or operate public water utilities, and it is often presented as a solution to city budget problems or water systems that need updates and repairs. Unfortunately, this rarely benefits ratepayers (aka you and me!) , leaving communities with higher rates, worse service, job losses, and an even poorer quality of water.

The rise of the water bottling industry is an extension of privatization. This industry, led by corporations like Nestlé, Danone, and Coca-Cola, benefits by driving a wedge between the public and its local tap water. The fact remains that in most places, tap water is safe, accessible, and costs a tiny fraction of the price of a bottle of water.

Individuals and local groups around the world have been fighting back against multinational corporations like Nestlé that buy off land and permits to spring water in rural areas for bottling. And others are fighting to protect their local water systems from government mismanagement and sell-offs to private corporations.