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Reduced groundwater extraction

Groundwater extraction management involves regulating how much water is pumped from underground aquifers. Groundwater is an important freshwater source for industries, agriculture, and public drinking water provision. Aquifers storing groundwater, when sustainably managed, ensure the resilience of fresh-water supplies to the effects of climate change and extreme weather events. However, prolonged droughts and overexploitation lead to declines in an aquifer’s water table, sometimes with irreversible effects. To maintain sustainable water levels in aquifers, groundwater extraction needs to be managed and reduced if needed. For aquifers that are particularly vulnerable, for example those near the coast, extraction can be legally restricted. Measures to manage and reduce ground water extraction include water sharing agreements, enforced water restrictions, and managed aquifer recharge (MAR). Reducing and controlling groundwater extraction is part of Integrated Water Resource Management.

During dry periods, authorities can use temporary measures like water restrictions and rationing to manage limited supplies. Restrictions usually target non-essential uses, such as watering gardens or washing cars, by limiting when and how much water can be used. Rationing is stricter and may involve lowering water pressure or cutting supply to ensure basic needs like drinking water and sanitation are met.

These emergency tools are useful during short-term shortages but are not enough on their own. Their long-term impact depends on whether people change how they use water. To make these measures more effective, governments can create priority lists that rank water uses based on local needs and environmental impact. Drinking water is usually the top priority.

As climate change increases the risk of droughts, relying only on temporary restrictions is not sustainable. Long-term solutions — such as water-saving habits, rainwater collection, greywater reuse, and desalination — are essential to secure water supplies and build resilience.

Feasibility & Local Applicability

This option is especially relevant for islands that rely heavily on groundwater. Implementing this option depends on having good data about aquifer levels and recharge rates, and the ability to invest in alternatives like rainwater harvesting or greywater reuse.

Co-benefits

Managing groundwater extraction helps maintain healthy ecosystems, such as wetlands and coastal habitats. It also supports biodiversity and reduces the risk of saltwater intrusion. In the long term, it ensures a more stable and resilient water supply, especially during climate-related events like droughts or hurricanes. 

Equity & Vulnerability Considerations

Restrictions on groundwater use can affect farmers and small communities. To ensure fairness, water rights should be clearly defined and equitably distributed. Smallholder farmers should receive quotas or support to adapt. Compensation or subsidies may be needed for those who lose access to water or need to invest in alternative sources.

Costs

Medium | Costs vary depending on the measures needed and the scale of implementation. Monitoring aquifers and enforcing extraction limits require investment in data collection, legal frameworks, and enforcement. Islands with existing water infrastructure (like desalination plants) may find it easier to transition.

Case-studies & Examples

Literature

Adaptation Options Overview