Almost all of the liquid freshwater in the world is groundwater. It makes up a large proportion of the water we use for agriculture. 70% of global groundwater withdrawals are used for agriculture, and around 30% of all water used for irrigation is groundwater. Groundwater plays a critical role in adapting to climate change, especially in water scarce regions.

Yet, groundwater is being over-used in many areas of the world, threatening to undermine basic water supply, climate resilience and food security. The inappropriate use of chemical and organic fertilizers and pesticides pollutes groundwater, compromising ecosystems and human health. We must protect groundwater and use it sustainably, balancing the needs of people and the planet Groundwater may be out of sight, but it must not be out of mind.

Check out the new UN World Water Development Report on "Groundwater - Making the invisible visible"! 

@FAO is author of the chapter on "Groundwater and agriculture".