Geography
Why Arid Regions Rely on Fossil Groundwater Aquifers
Quick fact
The Nubian Sandstone Aquifer System in Saharan Africa contains fossil water estimated to be as much as 1 million years old, yet it is being pumped for irrigation today.
Why this is interesting
Imagine a vast ocean hidden beneath a desert—water that hasn’t been replenished for thousands of years. Why do dry regions depend on this ancient treasure, and what happens when it runs out?