BGR and UNESCO present a new global groundwater map

BGR, together with UNESCO, has presented a new global groundwater map at the World Water Forum in Daegu & Gyeongbuk, Republic of Korea, April 12 - 17. The new map, titled "Global Groundwater Vulnerability to Floods and Droughts“, was officially presented through the project "World-wide Hydrogeological Mapping and Assessment Programme (WHYMAP)".

Global map of groundwater vulnerability to floods and droughts

The world map illustrates not only the vulnerability, but also the resilience of groundwater systems to natural disasters, such as extreme floods or droughts. Groundwater resources are often better protected from external influences as surface water, thanks to the overlaying soil strata. Thus they provide, especially in crisis situations, the chance to ensure safe drinking water when other water supply systems fail due to the effects of extreme climatic events.

The aim is to raise awareness among water managers and policy makers of the need to consider groundwater resources in management plans sufficiently.

Printed copies of the new map "Global Groundwater Vulnerability to Floods and Droughts" at a scale of 1:40.000.000 can be ordered via UNESCO, CGMW and BGR. The digital version of the map in SHP and PDF format is available on the WHYMAP-website for download.