Groundwater constitutes 99% of the Earth's liquid freshwater. It's a critical resource, especially as water scarcity intensifies due to climate change, emphasizing the need to recognize and harness its immense potential.

Groundwater supplies 25% of the world's water, providing drinking water for 50% of the population, especially in rural areas. Urban areas and agriculture are major users, with nearly 50% of global urban populations relying on groundwater, and agriculture representing 69% of groundwater withdrawals.

Increasing global water demand will amplify reliance on groundwater, but it is vulnerable to depletion and pollution. Protecting recharge areas, ensuring universal access, and enhancing subsurface knowledge are key to unlocking groundwater's potential and safeguarding this hidden resource.