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Water shortage in Hesse: Red alert for groundwater!
Hesse is fighting against groundwater stress: Study shows overuse and urgent need for action for sustainable water supply.
Water shortage in Hesse: Red alert for groundwater!
What is happening to our water? The situation in Hesse is serious. According to a current study by the Institute for Social-Ecological Research (ISOE), which was carried out on behalf of BUND, more than half of the districts in Hesse permanently withdraw more groundwater than is naturally regenerated. Particularly affected are 16 of 26 districts and independent cities that suffer from “structural groundwater stress”. Acute groundwater stress occurs in 12 of these regions, as evidenced by a decline in groundwater levels from 2012 to 2021. These alarming results are causing concern among experts and citizens alike. Hessenschau reports that the debate about a more conscious use of our water is getting louder.
The problem is particularly dramatic in Petersberg near Fulda. The municipality has already threatened a drinking water emergency, which means citizens will no longer be allowed to water their balcony plants. One of the most important drinking water sources in Petersberg recently recorded a decline to 650 cubic meters per day, and in summer it could even be as low as 400 cubic meters. A decline in groundwater regeneration caused by the dry winter is contributing to the tense situation.
Focus on water consumption
What is the overall situation in Hesse? Over 95% of the groundwater abstracted in Hesse is used for public water supply. The President of the Hessian State Office for Nature Conservation, Environment and Geology (HLNUG), Thomas Schmid, expressed optimism by emphasizing that there are currently no problems with the groundwater levels. Nevertheless, a need for adjustments in various areas becomes clear.
The study shows that Germany's water abundance is accompanied by regional bottlenecks, with the drought period between 2018 and 2022 significantly contributing to the continuous decline in groundwater levels in many regions. IDW emphasizes that agriculture also has a high water requirement, which, in combination with the climatic conditions, further exacerbates the problem of water availability.
Climate change and its effects
What does climate change have to do with it? Climate change brings additional uncertainties regarding groundwater availability and increases water use challenges. It is becoming increasingly important to develop and implement recommendations for action to ensure that future water shortages can be effectively combated, as the WADKlim research project suggests. Umweltbundesamt describes that, among other things, the promotion of water efficiency and sustainable water use are key strategies. Natural ecosystems should also be given greater attention.
Future water shortages are recognized as a widespread problem that is difficult to predict. Networking and collaboration between different user groups is becoming increasingly important. Measures such as the use of water reuse, particularly in urban areas, could provide crucial solutions.
Current research shows clearly: our water is a valuable commodity that needs to be protected. A sustainable strategy for groundwater use is essential so that we can continue to have access to sufficient clean drinking water in the future. The discussion is open – everyone can contribute!