Unprecedented Freshwater Loss on Earth's Continents
2025-08-04
A new study using over two decades of satellite observations reveals unprecedented freshwater loss across Earth's continents since 2002, driven by climate change, unsustainable groundwater use, and extreme droughts. Four continental-scale 'mega-drying' regions, primarily in the Northern Hemisphere, are emerging, posing severe threats to water security, agriculture, sea-level rise, and global stability. The research shows that 68% of land water loss comes from groundwater, exceeding the contribution from glaciers and ice caps to sea-level rise. The study calls for urgent action to slow and reverse groundwater depletion, protect remaining freshwater resources, and adapt to growing water scarcity and coastal flooding risks.
Read more
Tech
water crisis