by Suz Neave

Created on: February 03, 2009

It is interesting to observe that our survival on the surface is dependent on the resources that are held within our planet. Oil is currently the basis of our source of energy, providing us with movement, heating and power to light our homes. In the same way that oil if the source of energy, water is our source of life. We are made up of 70 -75% of water and it is involved in all our bodily functions. With such vast quantities covering the surface of the planet, raging rivers transporting seemingly limitless quantities of water from tiny springs to expanses of oceans, it is easy to forget that its existence is dependent on the groundwater below. Equally, it is easy to forget that like oil, it is also a limited resource.

If we take a look at the "Water Cycle", water is continually moving through our environment. Evaporation from the oceans forms clouds which provide rain, this rain flows back into the oceans on the surface or the often more forgotten route, under ground. The majority of water soaks into the ground, when it rains, and continues it journey through a vast honeycomb network of aquifers. These aquifers may be fine cracks between rocks or underground rivers or lakes. But why is it so important?

Nearly 70% of the world's fresh water is groundwater. As the water moves through soil and rock formations, such as limestone, filtering out many pollutants (including pathogens) providing good quality, clean drinking water. Groundwater is also a source of mineral water, usually collected from springs, which are important for health.

Groundwater is a vital source of good quality water, particularly in continents like Africa for example, as it is always available even through a dry season, and it can be easily extracted by wells and boreholes.

Its extensive network is the driving force of rivers as well supporting wetlands and lakes. Our spring that ends up as a raging river starts life as groundwater. These habitats in turn, not only provide life to wildlife and plants, but are also the source of water for agricultural crops.

Although, groundwater is always replenished, it is still a fragile resource that we should take of. Abstracting too much water can affect its flow and impact on surrounding ecosystems; due to the mobility of groundwater in some areas, excessive use of pesticides, sewage, landfills and other contaminant spillages can lead to extensive pollution problems of habitats; and disruption of the penetration of water into the ground from construction also has an impact on our groundwater.

Useful resource: www.groundwateruk.org

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