Aquifers Depletion and Land Subsidence in Iran

An FISN Research Report  by Dr. Khalil Khani, Professor Emeritus, Tehran University

Groundwater is a major part of global water available to mankind, found underground between rocks or soil layers, and is being accessed through wells or natural springs. Climate, land use, local geology, and water quality all affect the availability of groundwater resources. Groundwater, which is in aquifers below the surface of the Earth, is one of the most important natural resources anywhere.  Although 2/3 of the Earth’s surface is covered with water, less than 3% of it is fresh water. Pollutants in the world’s rivers, streams, and lakes render water undrinkable and harm local wildlife. Population growth has triggered overuse of fresh water, has also caused water shortages and dried up lakes, rivers, or streams before they reach the sea or downstream neighbors, and very often causing conflict. Read More