Water Resources News

Defining the Future

25 May 2009  -The Water Resources Programme works extensively in characterizing transboundary aquifers, such as the Nubian Sandstone Aquifer system, the Guarani and the Trifinio, as well as some river basins such as the Nile Basin, to name a few. Emphasis on the issue of transboundary aquifers has been highlighted during World Water Day 2009. With over 263 transboundary lakes and river basins within the borders of 145 countries, and ever-growing water needs, the necessity for peaceful cooperation grows. Another two billion people are dependent on underground aquifers moving under our feet and between borders.

Isotopes can help address, among other hydrological aspects, areas of recharge and discharge as well as cross-boundary groundwater flow and river-aquifer interactions. “The sharing of resources is a challenge, but also an opportunity to meet development aspirations. A correct assessment of resources – where isotopes can play a key role – can provide unbiased information, helping match science with politics,” says Pradeep Aggarwal, Water Resources Programme Manager. Groundwater resources will continue to grow in importance, especially in arid and semi-arid areas. Aquifers are already used to meet up to 75% of water needs in many parts of Africa, and pressure on them is continuing to grow.

World Water Day

06 Mar 2009  - The Water Resources Programme of the IAEA will contribute to the celebration of World Water Day 2009 that will be held on March 22 in Istanbul in conjunction with the 5th World Water Forum (March 16-22).

World Water Day 2009 focuses on transboundary freshwaters, and how to share them peacefully. With over 263 transboundary lakes and river basins within the boundaries of 145 countries, and ever-growing water needs, the necessity for peaceful cooperation grows. Another two billion people are dependent on underground aquifers moving under our feet and between borders. For the sake of this generation and the next, responsible management of these waters is a priority. The brainstorming, case studies, reports and discussions planned for WWD2009 will help lead the way to amicable solutions.

The IAEA leads in the use of isotope techniques to better understand and define water resources and the impacts of climate change, with a vision to reducing mounting water stress and meeting the United Nations Millennium Development Goals. For transboundary aquifers, the use of isotopes helps to define the areas of recharge and discharge as well as cross-boundary groundwater flow and river-aquifer interactions.