Veolia, a multinational corporation specializing in water, energy, and waste management, faced criticism during its general shareholders meeting held in Paris yesterday. The French company, known as the largest private drinking water supplier globally, has seen significant growth in its U.S. operations over the past five years, with revenues reaching $5.4 billion in 2023.
In a recent publication titled “Deep Dive: Veolia in the U.S.,” the company expressed its goal of supporting U.S. industrial and economic growth while considering environmental limits and health preservation. One area of focus for Veolia is addressing water quality issues related to PFAS, lead, and copper, prompted by increasing regulations.
However, the publication failed to provide specific details about drinking water quality or Veolia’s involvement in the Flint water crisis. In 2014, Flint, Michigan, switched its drinking water supply from Lake Huron to the Flint River, resulting in lead contamination due to inadequate treatment. Veolia was called in to provide engineering advice during a two-week period, but a class-action lawsuit alleged that the company failed to provide timely recommendations to address the water issues.
Veolia North America agreed to a $25 million settlement in February to avoid a high-profile second jury trial over its role in Flint. The company maintains that its advice was disregarded by political leaders and agency officials. Critics argue that the settlement, considering Veolia’s financial standing, falls short of providing meaningful compensation to Flint residents affected by the crisis.
Flint residents have also filed a lawsuit against the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), claiming that the agency neglected its responsibility to address the water contamination risks promptly. The EPA attempted to dismiss the case multiple times but has been unsuccessful. In 2021, the state of Michigan agreed to a $625 million settlement to provide restitution to Flint children, certain adults, businesses, and water rate payers.
Despite the settlement, the disbursement process has been complex, with some attorneys receiving significant payouts before Flint residents. Former Republican Governor Rick Snyder, who apologized for the crisis in 2016, faced charges of neglect of duty, but they were ultimately dismissed in 2023.
Flint continues to face challenges in replacing lead water service lines, and many residents still do not have access to safe tap water. The city has been criticized for failing to meet deadlines set in 2017 to address the lead service line replacement. However, financial constraints have prevented penalties from being imposed.
Flint water activist Melissa Mays expressed frustration with the lack of progress and ongoing hardships faced by residents. She highlighted issues such as plumbing damage, broken sewer lines, water leaks, and black mold, emphasizing the need for comprehensive solutions.
The Flint water crisis remains a significant concern, with residents seeking justice and long-term resolution to the issues caused by the contaminated water supply.
