Groundwater is very important in Estonia. It supports nature and agriculture. Many people use it as drinking water.
A scientist from the University of Tartu, Magdaleena Männik, invented a new method. This method shows where groundwater needs more protection. It also helps protect groundwater on the border between Estonia and Latvia.
Groundwater needs protection before it becomes polluted. Cleaning polluted groundwater is difficult and expensive. The new method helps find places where groundwater is at risk.
In Estonia, groundwater protection guidelines are old. They date back to the 1980s. The new method is more accurate and uses modern techniques.
Groundwater does not recognize national borders. Therefore, cooperation with neighboring countries is important. The new method helps assess the state of groundwater in both countries.
Agriculture can damage the quality of groundwater. Fertilizers can pollute groundwater. The new method shows where there is a greater risk.
Some areas are naturally well protected. For example, in the Pärnu region, groundwater is safer. In other places, such as Pandivere and Adavere-Põltsamaa, the risk is greater.
Magdaleena Männik's work helps to better understand groundwater protection. It helps make better decisions about the use of groundwater.