This is a brief discussion of two examples of
conflicts over water distribution, participation and recognition at the local
level in California and New Orleans, United States of America.
- California Case
This was about lack of clean water in Central Valley, California (CA). It’s
a case type of water management, access rights and entitlements. Poor
communities bore the cost of water pollution from fertilizers and agricultural
pesticides and yet they paid the highest drinking water rates in the state. Their
access to bottled water was weekly, and came at a cost, as they found such
water 30 to 50 miles away. This posed various environmental, health and
socio-economic impacts.
Environmental justice organisations and other supporters played a crucial
role in mobilising community members against the situation. Sundry mobilisation
forms were employed: development of a network, collective action, public
campaigns and street protests. The outcome was that a relevant new legislation
was enacted and participation of community members in decision making processes
was strengthened. There was also development of alternatives where, for
instance, State tax on fertilizers was put in place to fund clean drinking
water programs in the area. With all such strides, some communities still lack
access to clean, safe and affordable water despite the passing of a bill
ensuring the human right to water in CA.
