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.
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