最新研究：全球淡水正以前所未有的速度流失

Core Viewpoint - A new study reveals unprecedented freshwater loss on Earth over the past 20 years due to climate change, over-extraction of water resources, and frequent droughts [1][2] Group 1: Freshwater Loss and Its Impact - The study, conducted by researchers from Arizona State University, utilized satellite gravity measurement data to estimate changes in total freshwater storage across continents, including rivers, groundwater, glaciers, and ice caps [1] - From 2002 to 2024, many regions worldwide have experienced alarming declines in freshwater, with arid areas drying out faster than humid areas can replenish [1][2] - The area of arid regions is expanding at a rate exceeding 800,000 square kilometers per year, equivalent to the combined land area of the UK and France [1] Group 2: Major Drought Areas - Researchers identified four major drought regions where previously scattered freshwater loss areas have merged into large dry zones, including northern Canada and Russia, primarily due to glacier melting and permafrost thawing [1][2] - In two other regions, freshwater loss is mainly attributed to groundwater depletion caused by irrigation practices, covering the southwestern United States, much of Central America, and extending from Western Europe to North Africa and northern India [2] Group 3: Consequences of Freshwater Loss - The study indicates that freshwater loss has become a significant contributor to rising sea levels, surpassing the contributions from melting Antarctic or Greenland ice sheets, with an annual sea level rise of nearly 1 millimeter since 2015 [2] - The researchers express concern that 75% of the global population resides in 101 countries where freshwater has been depleting over the past 22 years [2] Group 4: Call to Action - The findings are described as a "wake-up call" for the planet, emphasizing the need for ongoing research to help policymakers address severe water resource challenges [3] - There is a call for community-level initiatives to make meaningful changes, particularly regarding the over-extraction of groundwater [3][4] - The urgency for immediate global action on water security is highlighted, stressing the potential threat to food and water security for billions of people [4]