Blue Future: Protecting Water for People and the Planet Forever

Canadian water activist Barlow follows up Blue Gold and Blue Covenant with a third volume that again sounds alarms about a coming worldwide water crisis. She begins with the 2010 UN General Assembly resolution “recognizing the human right to safe and clean drinking water and sanitation,” noting its potential power as a tool in the “struggle for water justice in the world.” Through statistics and anecdotes, Barlow outlines the need for water justice—whether in agriculture, industry, mining, energy production, or the direct control of water. Multinational corporations pollute water sources, restrict access to clean water, and contribute to desertification and habitat degradation. International treaties and government partnerships enable these behaviors, and mining companies in particular have even taken deadly action against groups that resist them. Barlow offers hope however, highlighting victories by nations and organizations that have won court battles, restored watersheds, and otherwise resisted the lure of money over clean water. She calls for changes in international law to prevent these depredations, along with pushing agriculture towards greater biodiversity. Barlow cites international cooperative efforts that are working to ensure watershed equity in areas of potential conflict. Her work will inspire equal parts outrage and encouragement in anyone who concerned about this most vital natural resource. (Jan.)