Groundwater depletion
Groundwater supplies about half of the world's domestic water, yet many major aquifers are being pumped faster than rain can refill them.
How this affects people
Hidden underground, aquifers are the world's largest freshwater store and a lifeline in dry seasons.
Heavy pumping for irrigation — often encouraged by free electricity — is draining aquifers in regions such as north-west India, leaving wells dry and land sinking.
Look at what keeps the problem going
- 01Irrigation pumping
- 02Subsidised or free electricity for pumps
- 03Weak regulation of wells
- 04Less recharge as land is paved
What could happen next
The future leaves room for choices. Compare the outlooks, check what supports them and notice where the evidence becomes less certain
Water tables keep falling
Farmers drill deeper as shallow wells run dry.
The future is not a timetable. These summaries reflect published scenarios and trends, with deeper uncertainty at longer horizons. Choices made now matter.
Where could a useful response begin?
Begin with a question you can investigate. Compare the sources and follow related briefings to see how the problem connects to other lives and places. This prototype does not accept proposals yet.
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