Red alert: Groundwater stress threatens Germany's water reserves!

Red alert: Groundwater stress threatens Germany's water reserves!

In Germany, which is often considered to be water-rich, there is grim news about groundwater availability. A current overview study by the Institute for Social-Ecological Research (ISOE) on behalf of the Federal Environment and Nature Conservation Germany (BUND) shows that around half of all districts and independent cities are struggling with acute or structural groundwater stress. The regions in eastern, northern and western Germany are particularly affected, where the water supply is increasingly faltering. These alarming results were published on June 16, 2025, one day before the press conference to present the detailed results.

The multi-year drought from 2018 to 2022 has left its mark and led to worrying declining groundwater levels in many areas. The study not only addresses current problems, but also analyzes how climate change is further increasing uncertainties regarding groundwater availability. Acute groundwater stress is defined when groundwater levels have fallen in recent years, while structural stress occurs when more than 20% of the annually recharged groundwater is withdrawn.

Hotspot regions and causes of water scarcity

The study identifies various hotspot regions where groundwater stress is particularly high, particularly in Hesse, Brandenburg, Lower Saxony and Schleswig-Holstein. These areas often have high levels of groundwater abstraction for public drinking water supplies, with industry and agriculture also making significant contributions in certain regions. The reasons for this stress are varied and vary regionally. Factors such as water quality problems, mining, climatic conditions and the growing demand for water in metropolitan regions play a crucial role.

The Federal Environment Agency adds that the water shortage in Germany has complex causes. A research project called WADKlim offers solutions and recommendations for action that are part of the German Adaptation Strategy to Climate Change and the National Water Strategy. These include measures to improve water retention, promote water efficiency and strengthen cooperation between different user groups.

The challenges of urban areas

The problem is exacerbated by heavy rainfall, particularly in urban areas. High amounts of rainfall often cannot be absorbed by the ground, leading to flash floods, rising water levels and flooding. The sealing of areas, for example through construction and asphalting, makes it impossible for rainwater to seep into the ground. This not only leads to overflows in combined sewer systems, but also puts a strain on ecosystems, as wastewater contaminated with pollutants and nutrients flows untreated into bodies of water.

A detailed analysis of all aspects of groundwater consumption and water use demonstrates the urgency of the situation. Improved understanding and regular collection of missing water use data are necessary. The need for legal and institutional frameworks as well as new infrastructural solutions for water reuse is now being called for by many experts. Sustainable water use is crucial to ensure fair supply for all user groups and to minimize future usage conflicts.

The ongoing drought and the uncertainties regarding the future water supply make it clear: There is something going on and active support is needed in order to get to grips with the challenges that climate change brings with it.