ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Commodification of water

Have you ever had to buy a bottle of water from the store? Sometimes, when we don't have access to clean water, we have to buy it instead. But did you know that there are some people and companies who want to make water a product that can only be bought and sold, like toys and candy? That's called commodification of water.

Basically, commodification means turning something that used to be free or a public good into something that can be owned and sold for profit. The idea of commodifying water is controversial because many people believe that access to clean water is a basic human right, not something that should only be available to those who can pay for it.

When water is commodified, it can lead to problems like water shortages, where there isn't enough water for everyone who needs it. Companies can also make a lot of money by controlling the water supply and charging high prices, which can be a problem for people who can't afford it.

So, it's important to remember that water is a precious resource that we all need to survive and thrive. It shouldn't be treated like a product that is only available to those who can pay for it.