The Privatization of Water and Water Systems (Chapter 3)

Authors

Peter H. Gleick, Pacific Institute for Studies in Development, Environment, and Security
Gary Wolff, Pacific Institute for Studies in Development, Environment, and Security
Elizabeth L. Chalecki, University of Nebraska at OmahaFollow
Rachel Reyes, Pacific Institute for Studies in Development, Environment, and Security

Document Type

Monograph

Publication Date

2002

Publication Title

The World's Water 2002-2003: the Biennial Report on Freshwater Resources

Volume

2002-2003

First Page

57

Last Page

85

Abstract

This chapter examines the global trend toward transferring water supply and management from public to private control. It outlines drivers such as financial pressures, efficiency goals, and ideological shifts, while reviewing diverse privatization models—from service contracts to full concessions. The text highlights potential benefits, including improved infrastructure and capital access, but focuses on significant risks: inequitable access, rising costs, weakened public oversight, loss of water rights, and environmental neglect. Case studies from Argentina, Bolivia, and the United States illustrate both successes and failures. The authors conclude that privatization can only work equitably when guided by strong governance, transparent contracts, public participation, and guarantees to protect basic human and ecosystem water needs.

Comments

This is a chapter co-written by University of Nebraska at Omaha faculty, Elizabeth Chalecki, and was deposited with permission from the publisher.

From World’s Water 2002-2003, by Peter Gleick et al. Copyright © 2002 Island Press. Reproduced by permission of Island Press, Washington, DC

This work is copyrighted and any reuse or permissions must be obtained from the copyright holder.

Note: PDF passed accessibility checker before upload.

Recommended Citation

Gleick, Peter H., Gary Wolff, Elizabeth L. Chalecki, and Rachel Reyes. 2002. Chapter 3 “The Privatization of Water and Water Systems” As found in Gleick, Peter, ed. The World’s Water 2002-2003: The Biennial Report on Freshwater Resources. Washington, DC: Island Press. 57-85pp.