Question

Which of the following solutions for creating access to clean water can affect the environment by overdrawing groundwater?

Answer 1

Solutions that involve significant extraction of groundwater to provide access to clean water can negatively impact the environment by overdrawing aquifers. These may include:

1. **Boreholes and Wells**: Drilling boreholes or deep wells can lead to the depletion of nearby aquifers if the extraction rate exceeds the natural recharge rate.

2. **Groundwater Irrigation**: Using groundwater for agricultural purposes can significantly reduce the water table, leading to ecological changes in the surrounding environment.

3. **Large-Scale Water Supply Projects**: Projects that divert large quantities of groundwater to supply urban areas can result in the over-extraction of water resources, affecting local ecosystems.

4. **Unregulated Water Extraction**: Any system that lacks regulation may result in uncontrolled extraction of groundwater, contributing to overdrawing and depletion of local water tables.

These methods often provide immediate access to clean water but can have long-term detrimental effects on the environment, including land subsidence, reduced water quality, and loss of aquatic habitats. Sustainable water management practices are therefore essential to balance human needs with environmental protection.