Sustainable Systems for Groundwater Resource Management

Abstract

Groundwater use all over the world is increasing as it remains one of the most reliable and feasible source of freshwater. This chapter discusses the occurrence, distribution and use of groundwater and the associated quantitative and qualitative challenges. Increasing industrialization accompanied by rampant extraction for agricultural purposes has caused serious threat to underground aquifers. Due to inadequate municipal supplies and unreliable variability of rainfall, groundwater extraction on an individual level has multiplied in both rural and urban areas. There is an urgent need for attention on several fronts to regulate and conserve this vital natural resource. Among several pathways, one of the possible solutions is to encourage community management of groundwater. Sustainable use of groundwater requires efficient implementation of advanced technology, water conservation strategies, along with proper enforcement of laws and policies at both macro and micro levels. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons Ltd. All rights reserved.