Fiona Mangan- F.L.O.W. (final website presentation)

In class last week, we watched a film called FLOW, which was about the water crisis that our entire world is faced with right now. The most obvious impact is on those who live in developing countries, but there are also some serious issues arising for people in our own country, which was also emphasized in this documentary.



One thing that really surprised me is the number of people who die from contaminated water every year… 2 million people!! Can you believe that? Death tolls for water born diseases are higher than that of AIDs and war, which is absolutely shocking. I knew the water crisis was serious, but not that serious. I learned also that a lot of contaminated water comes as a result of big businesses who not only rob needy community of their water, but dump toxic chemicals into remaining sources, causing damage not only to the ecosystems, but also human lives who are forced to drink that water. Nestle is one particular company that has caused a lot of damage, notably so in Michigan. They are running vital Michigan water sources dry, for little to no cost, and then elevating prices so high that it becomes difficult for the consumer to even purchase. This company in particular has a very bad reputation for respect of human life and has implemented many business tactics that put their consumers at risk, such as the scandal with baby formula, so it is no surprise that they would take their water endeavors to such extremes!

Another thing I found very shocking is the statistics regarding the health benefits of drinking bottled water. As far as I have known all my life, bottled water is fresh filtered spring water, but according to the video, that is not always the case. It was found through several studies across the board and in examining many different companies that often times what we suspected to be pure water actually was contaminated with as many chemicals as the water directly from our faucets. So in reality, when we feel we are entrusting our safety and health in the hands of water companies, this trust is ill placed!

The drinkable book is an incredible invention that has allowed for people all over the world to obtain safe drinking water. Each page of the book functions as a filter and when tested, it didn’t fail to provide safe water regardless of what kind of toxins were originally present! watch this video to learn more!!

Overall I was super impressed with the FLOW documentary. It delivered a lot of important information and has made me much more aware of the water crisis, not only worldwide, but also in my personal life. This has truly changed my perspective and from now on I will be much more careful with my water use habits.