Which of the following solutions for creating access to clean water can affect the environment by overdrawing groundwater? (1 point)
desalination
adapting dew
drilling wells
treating wastewater
drilling wells
To determine which solution for creating access to clean water can affect the environment by overdrawing groundwater, we will evaluate each option mentioned.
1. Desalination: Desalination is a process that removes salt and other minerals from seawater or brackish water to make it drinkable. While desalination itself does not directly affect groundwater, it requires a significant amount of energy, usually from fossil fuels, which can indirectly impact the environment by contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.
2. Adapting dew: Adapting dew refers to technology that collects water from the condensation of moisture in the air, usually during the nighttime. This method does not involve extracting groundwater and is generally considered environmentally friendly.
3. Drilling wells: Drilling wells refers to the process of creating holes in the ground to access underground water sources. While drilling wells can provide access to groundwater, overdrawing from the aquifer can lead to the depletion of the water source and cause long-term environmental consequences such as land subsidence, reduced water availability, and ecological disruptions.
4. Treating wastewater: Treating wastewater is the process of purifying and treating used water to make it safe for reuse or release back into the environment. It does not directly affect groundwater unless the treated water is injected back into underground aquifers.
Based on the explanations provided, the solution that can affect the environment by overdrawing groundwater is "drilling wells." It is crucial to carefully manage groundwater extraction to avoid depletion and maintain a sustainable water supply.