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How aquifers work

Groundwater About 30.1 percent of the total freshwater is found deep below the earth’s surface in layers of rocks and soil. These layers with wa- ter are called aquifers. Water is replenished in these layers through seepage from the surface water. Groundwater is mostly used for drinking purposes and is drawn through hand pumps, motor pumps, and wells. It is the cleanest source of potable water, but global warming is affecting its quality as well.

Climate Facts

● ● Brazil has the largest supply of freshwater, followed by Russia and Canada. ● ● More than a billion people depend on the rivers flowing from the Himalayas for freshwater.

Saving Water

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