As we celebrate World Water Day under the theme, “Groundwater: Making the invisible visible”, we must draw our attention to the nature of groundwater, and to the human-induced actions that contribute to its quality and quantity.
Groundwater makes up as much as 33% of global water withdrawals.
More than 2 billion people count on groundwater as their main source of water.
And 50% of water for agricultural irrigation is pumped from aquifers.
Scientific studies show that many of the world’s major aquifers are being depleted, resulting in decreased water flows, drying of springs and wetlands, and the loss of vegetation and land subsidence.
Overuse, urbanization, and contamination from human activities are threatening groundwater viability, leading to economic troubles, public health ills, and even water conflict.
As the human race grows, we need a better understanding of our groundwater systems, and a more thoughtful approach to managing them.
After all, we cannot infinitely mine a resource that is finite.
On this day, let us think about something most of us take for granted, and yet, something on which our very lives depend upon.
Let us recognize that achieving the SDGs, realizing human rights, and ensuring peace and security, all hinge upon water for all.
We must work together, within our communities and across borders, to manage water resources.
Considering that the world is increasingly urban, the upcoming High-Level Meeting on a New Urban Agenda offers us an opportunity to reflect on this important issue.
Going forward, we must transform our consumption patterns for the sustainability and conservation of groundwater.
We must pursue sustainable methods in irrigation, in water utilization, and in the disposal of harmful products.
We must also work towards systems that help recharge ground aquifers, and strengthen water harvesting, water reuse and smart water pricing.
By committing to these actions, we can secure the preservation of this finite natural resource.
