We recognise that, while groundwater underpins the livelihoods of many in our world, the sustainable development of the resource is not trivial and depends critically on an understanding of the hydrogeology.
The BGS has a long history of international development activity throughout the world to sustainably develop and manage groundwater.
Our projects span a wide range of subject areas reflecting our breadth of expertise, and the range of issues facing many in the world; they include:
- mapping groundwater resources and helping provide the tools and training needed to develop groundwater resources
- assessing and understanding natural groundwater quality issues, such as fluoride and arsenic
- helping to monitor groundwater pollution, and finding ways to protect groundwater resources
- researching how groundwater resources are affected by droughts and changing land use and climate
- examining ways integrating groundwater resources in integrated water and resources management (IWRM) in ways appropriate for individual areas and countries
- working in interdisciplinary teams with socio-economists and political scientists to ensure that solutions are sought that are truly appropriate and sustainable
- sharing data and information — Sharing Southern African data
Groundwater resilience to climate change in Africa
This one year DFID-funded project aims to improve understanding of the resilience of African groundwater to climate change and links to livelihoods. The project will develop policy recommendations for assessing how groundwater can support adaptation and build resilience to climate change.
Contact
Contact Dr Alan MacDonald for further information.