A hidden resource

When we think of fresh water we probably think of rivers, lakes and perhaps reservoirs. Yet even when we consider the huge lakes of North America or mighty rivers like the Amazon and the Ganges, over 97% of the planet's fresh water is to be found under the surface of the earth in the form of groundwater.

In many parts of the world groundwater is the main source of water for day to day use. Boreholes driven down into the saturated layer under the ground yield water for irrigation and urban use. At least 1,500 million urban dwellers are supplied with water from groundwater reserves. It is also extensively used as a low cost rural water supply.

Some areas near the surface may not be saturated with water and only have an intermittent supply of water. But, many areas deeper under the surface are saturated with water accumulated over hundreds or even thousands of years. These areas often supply permanent springs and can be tapped with boreholes to provide water. When we draw groundwater from deep aquifer supplies, we are tapping into water locked away under the surface and filtered through layer upon layer of rock. This is one of the reasons why groundwater is so reliable. The water in these areas may even be protected against recent surface pollution, providing a high quality supply where none was previously available.

Find Out More...
Follow these links to find out more about Groundwater, the Threats it faces and how we can Protect it. There are many web sites with education resources on groundwater – a selection may be found here

For a recent summary of key issues in international groundwater management go here