Considering the current consumption of water in the United States, water is undeniably vital for households, farms, and industries. However, the nation's population growth and increased demand have raised many concerns regarding the current usage of this invaluable resource in the country. The average American today uses approximately 98 gallons of water each day; even though water supply experts estimate the average person requires only 13.2 gallons a day (Morin). The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that "the average American family of four uses more than 300 gallons of water per day at home" (Water Use Today). In commercial areas, especially "in city" areas, researchers estimate "about 25 percent of cities use at least 40 percent of their available water, meaning they are under water stress" (Dattaro). These commercial areas are large consumers, as they provide water to households and industries alike. Industrial agriculture continues as the largest …show more content…
In order to bring more water more efficiently to those who demand it, private companies must seek new sources to meet demand. One of the biggest companies criticized for its unlawful and unethical seizing of water is Nestlé. In the early 2000's, when Nestlé began a spring water mining and pumping operation in Mecosta, Michigan, native Michigan's were outraged. Locals witnessed Nestlé as an "immediate environmental harm to rivers, streams, lakes, wetlands, and habitat in the zone of influence" (MCWS Versus Nestlé). The company also detrimentally affected the native watershed and wetlands in Colorado after they were given permission to withdrawal over the next decade "650 million gallons of Arkansas Valley" water from the area (Water Usage &