Dr. Adetunji Ayokunnu Adeniji is lecturer and researcher, Bowen University, Iwo, Osun State. His expertise is on the use of geophysical methods for environmental, hydrogeological and engineering applications. He spoke on his research, which focuses on advanced geophysical and geochemical methods for groundwater investigation and waste disposal sites characterisation:
“It is vital we emphasis on the huge groundwater reserves that silently support life and preserve environmental equilibrium as the world united commemorated the World Environment Day on June 5, 2025.
“Groundwater is essential to maintaining environments, agriculture and human livelihoods, yet it is frequently disregarded in conversations use on sustainability. It supports 40 per cent of irrigated agriculture and provides about half of the world’s population with their main source of drinking water, making it crucial for food security.“However, there is an increasing danger to this unseen resource. Groundwater is being depleted at startling rates due to over-extraction, pollution from agricultural and industrial runoff, and climate change. Communities practically exclusively depend on groundwater in areas with little rainfall and its depletion can have catastrophic social, economic, and environmental repercussions.
“The effects of unsustainable groundwater use on the environment are extensive. Reduced agricultural output and infrastructure damage result from land subsidence, biodiversity loss and drying wetlands caused by lower water tables. Saltwater intrusion from excessive aquifer pumping in coastal regions contaminates freshwater sources and endangers marine habitats.
Therefore, sustainable groundwater management is a need, not a choice. “Communities and governments need to invest in recharge infrastructure, implement wise water regulations and encourage effective irrigation methods. Educating the people about the importance of groundwater conservation and its value is equally crucial.
“Remember that the water beneath our feet is the first step towards the health of our lands and environments as we consider this year’s World Environment Day subject, ‘Land restoration, desertification and drought resilience.’ Life itself is protected when groundwater is preserved.
Conclusion: Protect to Sustain
“Sustainable groundwater and environmental practices are essential for safeguarding our planet’s future and go beyond simple resource management. Adopting ethical behaviors, creative thinking and teamwork can preserve our natural environments. “Groundwater is not only an environmental responsibility, but also a lifeline for coming generations. We can secure water supplies, build a truly sustainable world and maintain the resilience of ecosystems by safeguarding this essential resource today.”
Adeniji is a member of professional organisations, including Nigeria Institute of Physics (NIP), Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG), Institute of Water Resources Association (IWRA) and African Geophysical Society (AGS).