This paper explores the interconnections among Investor-State arbitration, Human Rights, and Consumer Protection in modern-day China. In particular, the author analyses the relationship between open arbitration in Bilateral Investment Treaties and the development of the ecological reforms launched in order to reach what has been called an ‘ecological civiliszation’, specifically with respect to the still controversial ‘right to water’. It is shown that within the framework of the construction of a consumer policy that might guarantee the safeguarding of environmental protection and consumer rights and, at the same time, the promotion of investment policies, the correct balance between public and private interests will be a crucial issue for China in the coming years.