In the heart of Eastern Europe, a silent battle is being waged beneath the surface, one that could significantly impact the energy sector and beyond. Groundwater, a vital resource for both Ukraine and Poland, is under threat from pollution, and understanding this risk is crucial for sustainable development and economic planning. A recent study, led by Галина Медвідь from the Institute of Geology and Geochemistry of Combustible Minerals of NAS of Ukraine, sheds light on the vulnerabilities and hazards of transboundary aquifers shared by these two countries.
The study, published in ‘Vіsnyk Kharkivskoho natsional’noho universytetu imeni V.N. Karazina. Seriya Geologiya. Geografiya. Ekologiya’ (Bulletin of V.N. Karazin Kharkiv National University. Series: Geology. Geography. Ecology), focuses on the risks of groundwater pollution in the transboundary aquifers between Ukraine and Poland. These aquifers, which straddle international borders, are complex systems that require coordinated management and monitoring. The research is part of the broader EU-WATERRES project, which aims to develop a concept for harmonized monitoring and management of these shared water resources.
The findings are both alarming and reassuring. While a substantial volume of groundwater in the transboundary catchments (85.3%) is classified as vulnerable or very vulnerable, the degree of groundwater pollution hazards is relatively low (4.74%). This discrepancy is crucial for understanding the potential impacts on the energy sector, which relies heavily on clean water for various processes.
“Within the Polish territory, their share is 99.9%, and within the Ukrainian territory it amounts to 79.5%,” Медвідь explains. “In contrast, the study area is marked by a low degree (4.74%) of groundwater pollution hazards. High and very high hazards in Ukraine account for 6.5% of the study area, and in Poland to 0.55%.”
The study uses an index-rating method to analyze the cumulative impact of hazards and the degree of vulnerability of transboundary aquifers, as well as mapping pollution risks using the overlay method. This approach provides a comprehensive assessment of the risks, highlighting areas where anthropogenic pressure could lead to significant pollution.
One of the most compelling findings is the Roztochchia area, where high anthropogenic pollution hazards are offset by the low vulnerability of the Lower Neogene aquifer. This balance results in a significant reduction in risks, demonstrating the importance of understanding both vulnerability and hazards in managing transboundary groundwater resources.
The implications for the energy sector are profound. As the demand for clean water increases, so does the need for sustainable management of groundwater resources. This research provides a roadmap for policymakers and industry stakeholders to plan economic activities with minimal risks, ensuring the long-term viability of water supplies for both countries.
The study’s findings are a call to action for the energy sector and policymakers. By understanding the vulnerabilities and hazards of transboundary aquifers, stakeholders can develop strategies to protect these vital resources. This research not only highlights the need for coordinated management but also underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and research in this critical area.
As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of water scarcity and pollution, studies like this one are essential for shaping future developments in water management and environmental protection. The insights gained from this research will undoubtedly influence how we approach the management of transboundary aquifers, ensuring a sustainable future for both Ukraine and Poland.
