A recent study led by researchers at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Southern California warns that seawater will infiltrate underground freshwater supplies in about three out of every four coastal areas around the world by 2100.
This alarming prediction indicates a significant threat to global freshwater resources, particularly in coastal regions. The intrusion of seawater into freshwater aquifers could render water sources undrinkable and unsuitable for irrigation, posing challenges for communities reliant on these supplies.
Moreover, the study highlights that such changes could harm ecosystems and corrode infrastructure. As seawater encroaches inland, it not only impacts human consumption and agriculture but also disrupts the natural balance of coastal ecosystems, affecting biodiversity and habitat stability.
The findings underscore the urgency of addressing factors contributing to seawater intrusion, such as rising sea levels and over-extraction of groundwater. With coastal populations continuing to grow, proactive measures are essential to mitigate the potential impact on freshwater resources.
JPL’s announcement on Thursday calls for global attention to this impending issue, emphasizing the need for sustainable water management practices and protective strategies to preserve freshwater aquifers for future generations.
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Study suggests seawater intrusion could affect underground freshwater
cgtn.com
