Germany is facing a widespread groundwater crisis. The study, published on Monday, found that in 201 of 401 German districts, more groundwater is being extracted than can be replenished by natural precipitation.
The problem is not limited to the well-known dry regions in eastern Germany, but also affects major urban areas, such as the Rhine Valley and regions in Lower Saxony. In fact, 94 districts are experiencing “acute groundwater stress” with significant declines in groundwater levels over the past few years. Almost all German states have recorded new low points in groundwater measurements.
“This study confirms that groundwater stress is no longer a regional issue, but a nationwide concern” said Verena Graichen, BUND’s executive director. The study highlights the systematic overuse of groundwater reserves, with droughts and extreme weather events, linked to climate change, exacerbating the situation.