Alarming groundwater consumption in Saxony-Anhalt: A wake-up call!

Alarming groundwater consumption in Saxony-Anhalt: A wake-up call!

Anhalt-Bitterfeld, Deutschland - The water supply in Germany is increasingly under pressure. Current reports show that many regions remove excessive groundwater, which is particularly concerned with concern in Saxony-Anhalt. According to mdr there is so high in agriculture and industry that it exceeds natural regeneration through rainwater. In most districts of Saxony-Anhalt alone, more water is taken from than can be traced by precipitation.

The Situation has improved due to the heavy rains and floods around the turn of the year 2024, but according to a study by the Environmental Association Bund, more than 50% of the 401 counties in Germany are affected. In just two regions, the Harz and the city of Dessau-Roßlau, there is currently no acute groundwater stress. This could be a serious challenge for many households and companies.

A look at the future

climate change actively contributes to the situation and lowers the groundwater level, especially in Saxony-Anhalt and Brandenburg. This is related to the "Wadklim" project, which deals with the effects of dryness and drought on water availability in Germany: The focus here is on the analysis of water usage conflicts and the development of solution strategies for agriculture and urban areas. As in Federal Environment Agency , such approaches are necessary to ensure sufficient water supply in the future.

The experiences of recent years are particularly alarming. The drought from 2018 to 2020 has already caused considerable damage in agriculture, which shows us how fragile our water -quality is real. It is feared that the renewable water supply requirement, especially in the summer months, could lose weight, which could lead to locally limited care, as well as the Ruhr-Unversität Bochum notice.

The role of nature

A relaxed nature can help us to master these challenges. Humus -rich soils, structurally rich meadows and wet bogs are a crucial part of the water regulation. These natural systems are not only important for water storage, but also for the cleanliness of the groundwater. Residues of medication, pesticides and PFAs make it clear how important it is to use our water resources.

The federal government therefore calls for a drastic decline in water consumption and a uniform regulation for the protection and sustainable use of water. The monitoring of the groundwater levels will be crucial to ensure the long -term drinking water supply and our most valuable asset to protect the water.