Discovery of Offshore Aquifers

A US government ship discovered a freshwater aquifer under the Atlantic Ocean nearly 50 years ago. Recent explorations by international scientists have confirmed the existence of this large aquifer stretching from New Jersey to Maine. It highlights the potential of offshore aquifers as significant freshwater sources.

Characteristics of Offshore Aquifers

• Similar to onshore aquifers, they are porous rock or sediment saturated with freshwater.
• Located beneath the sea floor, extending up to 90 kilometers off the coast.
• Contain more freshwater than all water extracted from onshore aquifers.

Global Presence and Exploration

• Confirmed offshore aquifers exist off the coasts of Australia, China, North America, and South Africa.
• The latest US northeast expedition is the first global systematic drill for undersea freshwater.
• The aquifer could supply a city like New York with water for 800 years.

Formation Hypotheses

• Water may have reached under the sea floor during past ice ages when sea levels were lower.
• Offshore aquifers might be connected to onshore ones, receiving regular replenishment after rainfall.

Significance and Challenges

• Offshore aquifers could alleviate land water scarcity amidst a global water crisis.
• Freshwater demand is predicted to exceed supply by 40% by 2030 per a 2023 UN report.
• Challenges include high costs, design of wells for sea floor operation, and environmental impacts.
• Ownership, rights, and management of water extraction remain contentious issues.