Water, leaks and big money

It's going to cost a lot of money to fix America's leaky pipes. Not as much as it takes to occupy a country, in say, the Mideast, but a lot of money nonetheless. With inflation now hitting China and other Asian manufacturers, I suggest we fix these pipes while there're still some companies in America that can make the necessary pipe and plumbing supplies. And before our dollar shrivels into a nano-currency.

The EPA just estimated it would cost over $270-billion U.S. to fix America's water systems. Some industry analysts say it's nearly $500-billion. Either way the situation underlines the rising cost of water is part of our future. It's a bright future for any green tech firm that recycles, purifies or conserves water for use and re-use.

In the VC and start-up gatherings, water IS seen as one of the places to invest. Here's the program from the coming GoingGreen conference. Water's there along with solar and more high profile green tech sectors. Here's a global perspective on how the valuation of water companies is rising, and why. All the major cleantech conferences around the world now feature seminars and panels on water. It's everywhere.