A new study has revealed a shocking factor that is causing a significant shift in Earth’s tilt: humans sucking water from the ground. According to researchers, between 1993 and 2010, the tilt of the Earth shifted by 31.5 inches, corresponding with global withdrawals of underground water. This finding, published in the journal Geophysical Research Letters, highlights the impact of groundwater depletion on sea level rise and the Earth’s rotational pole. The study suggests that the displacement of water from aquifers, which is happening faster than replenishment, has not only led to a quarter-inch rise in global sea levels but also caused the Earth to wobble more, similar to a spinning top or basketball with redistributed weight. This discovery raises concerns about the consequences of pumping groundwater and the urgent need to conserve water resources.
New Study Reveals the Shocking Factor That’s Caused a Dramatic Shift in Earth’s Tilt: ‘I’m Concerned and Surprised’
A new study published in the journal Geophysical Research Letters has found that human withdrawals of underground water have caused a significant shift in the tilt of the Earth’s axis. Between 1993 and 2010, the tilt of the Earth shifted by 31.5 inches, corresponding with the worldwide pumping of an estimated 2,150 gigatons of water from aquifers. This amount of water is equivalent to filling 860 million Olympic pools and has caused a global sea-level rise of about a quarter-inch.
The displacement of groundwater, much of which is used for irrigation purposes and eventually flows into the oceans, has happened faster than the replenishment of aquifers. This rapid extraction of water has also had an impact on the Earth’s wobble. The motion can be likened to a spinning top or a basketball on a finger that has had its weight redistributed. The water in the aquifers behaves like a water balloon, causing a slight "sloshing" effect.
While the shift in the Earth’s axis due to weight redistribution is not a new phenomenon, the pattern of the observed shift has been a mystery until now. Previous studies have linked changes in the tilt to factors such as melting glaciers, ice sheets, and water held behind dams. However, the new study suggests that groundwater depletion plays a significant role in sea-level change and has the largest impact on the drift of the rotational pole.
Ki-Weon Seo, the geophysicist from Seoul National University who led the study, expressed his concern and surprise at the findings. He stated, "On the other hand, as a resident of Earth and a father, I’m concerned and surprised to see that pumping groundwater is another source of sea-level rise." This discovery highlights the importance of maintaining healthy groundwater supplies, not only to avoid additional Earth wobble but also to prevent ground sinking and ensure an adequate water supply for drinking and farming.
To reduce the consumption of groundwater, individuals can take steps such as choosing water-sipping plantings, promptly repairing leaks, and using water-saving products. These actions not only help conserve water and protect the environment but also have the added benefit of saving money. As our planet continues to warm, it becomes increasingly crucial to prioritize the conservation of groundwater resources.
In conclusion, the new study sheds light on the significant impact of human withdrawals of underground water on the Earth’s axis. The rapid extraction of groundwater has caused a shift in the tilt of the Earth and contributed to sea-level rise. To mitigate these effects, it is essential for individuals and organizations to take steps to conserve groundwater and protect this valuable resource for future generations.
