Clean water is one of the most vital and valuable substances on Earth—more precious than oil or gold. Wars have been fought over it. It is absolutely essential to keep it in steady, reliable supply. Yet, a recent acquisition in America has caused many to question what is happening to America’s control over its own water.
On February 4, Associated Press explained, “A recently completed $8.6 billion takeover of American Water Works by German-based industrial giant rwe has led to a backlash from a handful of cities across America. The deal covers more than 800 water systems serving 15 million people in 27 states and three Canadian provinces” (emphasis ours throughout).
Some people are concerned. “Few issues are as prickly as rwe’s German heritage. ‘That really bothered a lot of people, especially older folks,’ said Kathryn Slater-Carter, a Montana resident since 1979. ‘Memories of World War ii are still very strong’” (ibid.).
Germany is certainly strengthening its international gains. Yet, “Rwe isn’t the only foreigner buying into the U.S. water industry; French companies Vivendi Environment and Suez also have bought local water systems within the past few years” (ibid.). These three European water giants have, in fact, since 1990, “expanded into every region of the world, raising concerns that a handful of private companies could soon control a large chunk of the world’s most vital resource” (Charleston Gazette, Feb. 12).
What is wrong with foreign ownership of a nation’s vital resources? Looked at through the prism of history, this should send shivers up our spines! The problem is that a nation’s friends and allies do not always remain its friends and allies. And the thought of the consequences of foreign ownership of water, should that friendly nation become an enemy, is chilling. Particularly when you consider that, in this case, that nation is Germany.
Rwe has said it plans to continue to expand operations in the U.S. Watch for more corporate foreign ventures to be undertaken by a rising Germany and Europe.