Characterisation and Assessment of Groundwater Quality Concerns in Asia-Pacific Region: The Aquifers of the Asian-Pacific Region - An Invaluable but Fragile Resource

The purpose of this report is both to inform and advise. It assesses the current and likely future groundwater quality problems, both natural and anthropogenic, in the region and identifies the principal threats to the security of this valuable resource. The principal quality concerns are I) rapid urbanisation (especially seepage from on-site sanitation systems), ii) over-exploitation including saline intrusion, and iii) the leaching of nutrients from intensive agriculture. In addition, the report describes the evolution of groundwater quality problems, the key processes involved and how the susceptibility of aquifers to change is strongly dependent upon the hydro geological environment. Finally, it emphasizes the need for (a) improved groundwater monitoring and protection, (b) for setting priorities for action based on assessment of aquifer vulnerability and contaminant loading, and (c) for the adoption of early warning monitoring strategies. Training courses, both at national and regional level, are seen as an essential component of any strategy to improve groundwater management.