Groundwater over-exploitation in Libya leads to aquifer deterioration and saline contamination.
Groundwater in Libya's Wadi Baye is crucial for agriculture and economy, but over-exploitation has led to saline and aquifer issues. By studying the groundwater flow and chemistry, researchers found that shallow water is affected by ancient salty water, while deep water mixes with modern water. A numerical model showed that both shallow and deep aquifers are being over-exploited, with hydraulic conductivity having the biggest impact. Plans to reduce abstraction levels could help stabilize the groundwater levels in the future.