Groundwater

Groundwater is a tremendous natural resource, representing about 98% of the non-frozen freshwater in the world. It plays a vital role in food security, economic development, and adaptation to climate change.

In the face of climate change, groundwater is expected to become increasingly important as surface water sources become less available. Groundwater can provide a secure and reliable water source during droughts and can also help mitigate the impacts of floods.

However, groundwater is vulnerable to overexploitation and pollution. In many countries, groundwater is being used at a faster rate than it is being replenished. This can lead to declining groundwater levels, affecting agriculture, industry, and wildlife.

To preserve groundwater, there is a need for sustainable policies and practices. This includes identifying appropriate uses of groundwater, placing restrictions on its extraction, and implementing measures to prevent pollution.

Groundwater covers approximately 30% of the Earth's surface area.

Groundwater provides about 40% of the freshwater used for drinking, irrigation, and industry.

Groundwater contributes to around 20% of global agricultural production.

Groundwater serves as a secure water source for people living in drought-prone areas.

Groundwater can help reduce the impacts of floods.

Countries need to take measures to protect groundwater as it is an invaluable natural resource.

Certainly. Here is more information about the importance of groundwater:

Groundwater is a vital source of water for many regions around the world, particularly in areas where surface water is scarce or unreliable.

It plays a crucial role in sustaining ecosystems, supporting biodiversity, and maintaining wetlands, rivers, and lakes.

Groundwater helps replenish surface water bodies such as rivers and lakes by providing base flow, especially during dry periods.

It serves as a buffer against droughts, providing a reliable water supply even when rainfall is limited.

Groundwater sustains agricultural activities by supplying water for irrigation, helping to ensure food security.

It supports industrial processes and energy production, playing a significant role in economic development.

Groundwater is often of high quality, requiring minimal treatment compared to other water sources.

It serves as a drinking water source for millions of people worldwide, especially in rural areas where access to surface water may be limited.

Groundwater has a longer residence time than surface water, making it a more stable water source during extended dry periods.

The sustainable management of groundwater resources is essential to ensure their long-term availability and prevent depletion and contamination.

In light of climate change, groundwater is expected to become increasingly important. Surface water sources are likely to become less available due to droughts and floods. Groundwater can provide a secure and reliable water source in these conditions.

However, groundwater is vulnerable to overexploitation and pollution. In many countries, groundwater is being used at a faster rate than it is being replenished. This can lead to declining groundwater levels, affecting agriculture, industry, and wildlife.

To preserve groundwater, there is a need for sustainable policies and practices. This includes identifying appropriate uses of groundwater, placing restrictions on its extraction, and implementing measures to prevent pollution.

Here are some actions countries can take to protect groundwater: