Water Extraction and Its Impacts

What is Water Extraction?

Water extraction entails removing water from its natural sources, such as lakes, rivers, or groundwater aquifers, for various human purposes, including drinking, irrigation, and industrial processes.

Impacts of Water Extraction:

Environmental impacts: Excessive water extraction can lead to decreased river flows, resulting in habitat loss for aquatic life. Additionally, groundwater over-extraction can cause land subsidence, which refers to the sinking of the earth's surface due to depleted water reserves.
Economic impacts: Water scarcity caused by excessive extraction can increase the cost of water for businesses and households. Furthermore, it can affect industries heavily reliant on water resources, leading to production disruptions.
Social impacts: Communities and individuals who heavily depend on water resources may face challenges accessing clean water when water extraction is excessive. This can lead to water shortages, conflicts between different water users, and even displacement of local populations.

Where can water be extracted?

Water extraction services can be employed in various locations, including:

Lakes and rivers
Groundwater aquifers
Desalination plants (for converting saltwater into freshwater)