Groundwater Pollution: Sources and Consequences

Groundwater has strategic importance in sustaining ecosystems and human adaptation to climate change. The pollution of this vital source is least recognized because it is hidden from view beneath the land surface. Groundwater pollution is the result of actions above, on, and under the ground. Once groundwater is polluted, it remains so for decades or even centuries. The movement of water through the hydrological cycle changes its quality due to biological and physiochemical developments. Both natural and anthropogenic sources are critical contributors to groundwater pollution. They release heavy metals, salts, organic debris, phenols, microorganisms, radioactive elements, microplastics, and many other pollutants. All of these pollutants eventually enter the reservoir and pollute the subsurface environment. Groundwater pollution has serious consequences for human health, economic growth, and ecosystems. The health of present and future generations is at risk if strategies are not developed to restrict groundwater contamination. Better understanding and identification of pollution sources are prerequisites for the effective protection and preservation of groundwater resources.