Excessive Groundwater Pumping Tilted Earth’s Axis by 31.5 Inches: Study

 Excessive Groundwater Pumping Tilted Earth’s Axis by 31.5 Inches: Study

A recent study has revealed that excessive groundwater extraction over the last two decades has caused Earth's axis to tilt by 31.5 inches (80 cm). This redistribution of water has also contributed approximately 0.24 inches to global sea-level rise.

Published in Geophysical Research Letters, the study highlights that groundwater pumping has had a more significant impact on Earth's rotational drift than other climate-related factors. The extraction of an estimated 2,150 gigatons of groundwater between 1993 and 2010 has reshaped the planet's mass distribution, leading to notable shifts in its axis.

Groundwater and Its Global Importance

Groundwater, stored beneath Earth’s surface in aquifers, is replenished by precipitation. It plays a crucial role in the water cycle, particularly during dry periods when surface water sources like rivers and lakes are scarce. It provides drinking water for rural populations, supports agricultural irrigation, and is vital for industrial processes like manufacturing and cooling systems.

However, unchecked groundwater depletion poses severe challenges, including ecological damage, rising sea levels, and disruptions to Earth’s balance. Ki-Weon Seo, a geophysicist at Seoul National University and the study’s lead author, emphasized the critical role of groundwater in altering Earth’s rotation. “Our study shows that among climate-related causes, the redistribution of groundwater actually has the largest impact on the drift of the rotational pole,” Seo explained.

How Groundwater Affects Earth’s Tilt

The movement of groundwater from beneath the surface to the oceans changes Earth's mass distribution, impacting its rotation. This phenomenon is likened to adding weight to a spinning top, subtly altering its spin. The study ties this redistribution of mass to observable shifts in Earth's rotational pole, echoing earlier hypotheses proposed by NASA in 2016.

Regions like North America and Northwest India, where intense groundwater pumping is common, significantly contribute to these changes. The water used for irrigation and human consumption is often transported to oceans, further exacerbating the imbalance

Addressing the Impact

Experts warn that the consequences of excessive groundwater use extend beyond immediate water shortages to long-term planetary effects. To mitigate these challenges, sustainable water management practices are essential. Monitoring changes in Earth's rotational pole, as suggested by the researchers, provides valuable insights into global water storage patterns and the broader impacts of human activity.

This study underscores the interconnectedness of local water usage and global environmental stability, calling for collective action to preserve Earth's resources and balance.