Total Renewable Groundwater Resources by Country 1996

Total renewable groundwater represents the combined volume of internally generated and externally sourced groundwater that is naturally replenished and available for use.

188 data points•Updated 12/30/2025•World•Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)•

View data for:

Interactive Map

Complete Data Rankings

Rank
1	United States	1,383 Cubic meters per year
2	China	828.8 Cubic meters per year
3	Russia	788 Cubic meters per year
4	Brazil	645.6 Cubic meters per year
5	Colombia	510 Cubic meters per year
6	Indonesia	457.4 Cubic meters per year
7	Myanmar	453.7 Cubic meters per year
8	India	432 Cubic meters per year
9	Congo, Democratic Republic of the	421 Cubic meters per year
10	Canada	370 Cubic meters per year
11	Peru	303 Cubic meters per year
12	Venezuela	227 Cubic meters per year
13	Papua New Guinea	211.6 Cubic meters per year
14	Philippines	180 Cubic meters per year
15	Mexico	150 Cubic meters per year
16	Chile	140 Cubic meters per year
17	Ecuador	134 Cubic meters per year
18	Bolivia	130 Cubic meters per year
19	Argentina	128 Cubic meters per year
20	Congo	122 Cubic meters per year
21	France	120 Cubic meters per year
22	Guyana	103 Cubic meters per year
23	Cameroon	100 Cubic meters per year
24	Norway	96 Cubic meters per year
25	Suriname	90 Cubic meters per year
26	Nigeria	87 Cubic meters per year
27	Australia	72 Cubic meters per year
28	Vietnam	71.42 Cubic meters per year
29	Turkey	67.8 Cubic meters per year
30	Malaysia	64 Cubic meters per year
31	Gabon	62 Cubic meters per year
32	Nicaragua	59 Cubic meters per year
33	Angola	58 Cubic meters per year
34	Central African Republic	56 Cubic meters per year
35	Madagascar	55 Cubic meters per year
36	Pakistan	55 Cubic meters per year
37	Iran	49.3 Cubic meters per year
38	Zambia	47 Cubic meters per year
39	Germany	45.7 Cubic meters per year
40	Liberia	45 Cubic meters per year
41	Italy	43 Cubic meters per year
42	Thailand	41.9 Cubic meters per year
43	Paraguay	41.64 Cubic meters per year
44	Honduras	39 Cubic meters per year
45	Guinea	38 Cubic meters per year
46	Laos	37.9 Cubic meters per year
47	Côte d'Ivoire	37.84 Cubic meters per year
48	Costa Rica	37.31 Cubic meters per year
49	Kazakhstan	33.85 Cubic meters per year
50	Guatemala	33.7 Cubic meters per year
51	Tanzania	30 Cubic meters per year
52	Spain	29.9 Cubic meters per year
53	Uganda	29 Cubic meters per year
54	Japan	27 Cubic meters per year
55	Ghana	26.3 Cubic meters per year
56	Sierra Leone	25 Cubic meters per year
57	Iceland	24 Cubic meters per year
58	Uruguay	22.9 Cubic meters per year
59	Ukraine	22 Cubic meters per year
60	Bangladesh	21.122 Cubic meters per year
61	Panama	21 Cubic meters per year
62	Ethiopia	20 Cubic meters per year
63	Mali	20 Cubic meters per year
64	Nepal	20 Cubic meters per year
65	Sweden	20 Cubic meters per year
66	Cambodia	17.6 Cubic meters per year
67	Georgia	17.23 Cubic meters per year
68	Mozambique	17 Cubic meters per year
69	Belarus	15.9 Cubic meters per year
70	Guinea-Bissau	14 Cubic meters per year
71	Kyrgyzstan	13.69 Cubic meters per year
72	Slovenia	13.5 Cubic meters per year
73	South Korea	13.3 Cubic meters per year
74	North Korea	13 Cubic meters per year
75	Poland	12.5 Cubic meters per year
76	Solomon Islands	11.92 Cubic meters per year
77	Bosnia and Herzegovina	11.57 Cubic meters per year
78	Chad	11.5 Cubic meters per year
79	Croatia	11 Cubic meters per year
80	Ireland	10.8 Cubic meters per year
81	Afghanistan	10.65 Cubic meters per year
82	Greece	10.3 Cubic meters per year
83	Equatorial Guinea	10 Cubic meters per year
84	Morocco	10 Cubic meters per year
85	United Kingdom	9.8 Cubic meters per year
86	Bhutan	9.5 Cubic meters per year
87	Burkina Faso	9.5 Cubic meters per year
88	Uzbekistan	8.8 Cubic meters per year
89	Romania	8.46 Cubic meters per year
90	Sri Lanka	7.8 Cubic meters per year
91	Belize	7.51 Cubic meters per year
92	Burundi	7.47 Cubic meters per year
93	Rwanda	7 Cubic meters per year
94	Azerbaijan	6.51 Cubic meters per year
95	Cuba	6.48 Cubic meters per year
96	Bulgaria	6.4 Cubic meters per year
97	Albania	6.2 Cubic meters per year
98	Syrian Arab Republic	6.174 Cubic meters per year
99	El Salvador	6.15 Cubic meters per year
100	Mongolia	6.1 Cubic meters per year
101	Austria	6 Cubic meters per year
102	Hungary	6 Cubic meters per year
103	Tajikistan	6 Cubic meters per year
104	Zimbabwe	6 Cubic meters per year
105	Togo	5.7 Cubic meters per year
106	Jamaica	5.472 Cubic meters per year
107	Fiji	5.273 Cubic meters per year
108	South Africa	4.8 Cubic meters per year
109	Latvia	4.7 Cubic meters per year
110	Netherlands	4.5 Cubic meters per year
111	Vanuatu	4.377 Cubic meters per year
112	Armenia	4.311 Cubic meters per year
113	Denmark	4.3 Cubic meters per year
114	Dominican Republic	4.161 Cubic meters per year
115	Estonia	4 Cubic meters per year
116	Portugal	4 Cubic meters per year
117	Kenya	3.5 Cubic meters per year
118	Senegal	3.5 Cubic meters per year
119	Somalia	3.3 Cubic meters per year
120	Iraq	3.28 Cubic meters per year
121	Lebanon	3.2 Cubic meters per year
122	Malawi	2.5 Cubic meters per year
123	Niger	2.5 Cubic meters per year
124	Switzerland	2.5 Cubic meters per year
125	Finland	2.2 Cubic meters per year
126	Saudi Arabia	2.2 Cubic meters per year
127	Haiti	2.157 Cubic meters per year
128	Namibia	2.1 Cubic meters per year
129	Benin	1.8 Cubic meters per year
130	Slovakia	1.73 Cubic meters per year
131	Botswana	1.7 Cubic meters per year
132	Tunisia	1.595 Cubic meters per year
133	Algeria	1.517 Cubic meters per year
134	Egypt	1.5 Cubic meters per year
135	Yemen	1.5 Cubic meters per year
136	Czech Republic	1.43 Cubic meters per year
137	Oman	1.3 Cubic meters per year
138	Israel	1.225 Cubic meters per year
139	Lithuania	1.1 Cubic meters per year
140	Comoros	1 Cubic meters per year
141	Belgium	0.9 Cubic meters per year
142	Mauritius	0.893 Cubic meters per year
143	Timor-Leste	0.886 Cubic meters per year
144	State of Palestine	0.75 Cubic meters per year
145	Eswatini	0.66 Cubic meters per year
146	Trinidad and Tobago	0.614 Cubic meters per year
147	Libya	0.6 Cubic meters per year
148	Jordan	0.54 Cubic meters per year
149	Eritrea	0.5 Cubic meters per year
150	Gambia	0.5 Cubic meters per year
151	Lesotho	0.5 Cubic meters per year
152	Cyprus	0.41 Cubic meters per year
153	Turkmenistan	0.405 Cubic meters per year
154	Republic of Moldova	0.4 Cubic meters per year
155	Mauritania	0.3 Cubic meters per year
156	Cabo Verde	0.124 Cubic meters per year
157	United Arab Emirates	0.12 Cubic meters per year
158	Bahrain	0.112 Cubic meters per year
159	Brunei Darussalam	0.1 Cubic meters per year
160	Luxembourg	0.08 Cubic meters per year
161	Barbados	0.074 Cubic meters per year
162	Qatar	0.058 Cubic meters per year
163	Malta	0.05 Cubic meters per year
164	Maldives	0.03 Cubic meters per year
165	Kuwait	0.02 Cubic meters per year
166	Saint Kitts and Nevis	0.02 Cubic meters per year
167	Djibouti	0.015 Cubic meters per year
168	Nauru	0.01 Cubic meters per year
169	Antigua and Barbuda	0 Cubic meters per year
170	Bahamas	0 Cubic meters per year
171	Cook Islands	0 Cubic meters per year
172	Dominica	0 Cubic meters per year
173	Faroe Islands	0 Cubic meters per year
174	Grenada	0 Cubic meters per year
175	Kiribati	0 Cubic meters per year
176	New Zealand	0 Cubic meters per year
177	Niue	0 Cubic meters per year
178	North Macedonia	0 Cubic meters per year
179	Saint Lucia	0 Cubic meters per year
180	Saint Vincent and the Grenadines	0 Cubic meters per year
181	Samoa	0 Cubic meters per year
182	Sao Tome and Principe	0 Cubic meters per year
183	Seychelles	0 Cubic meters per year
184	Singapore	0 Cubic meters per year
185	South Sudan	NaN Cubic meters per year
186	Sudan	NaN Cubic meters per year
187	Tonga	0 Cubic meters per year
188	Tuvalu	0 Cubic meters per year

↑Top 10 Countries

Analysis: These countries represent the highest values in this dataset, showcasing significant scale and impact on global statistics.

↓Bottom 10 Countries

Context: These countries or territories have the lowest values, often due to geographic size, administrative status, or specific characteristics.

Analysis & Context

The concept of "Total Renewable Groundwater Resources by Country" in 1996 encapsulates the volume of groundwater that is naturally replenished within a nation, crucial for sustaining ecosystems, agriculture, and human consumption. Groundwater serves as a vital resource, particularly in regions facing surface water scarcity. This metric provides insights into how different countries manage and utilize their groundwater reserves, reflecting broader environmental and geographical patterns.

Climate and Renewable Groundwater Resources

Climate plays a significant role in determining the availability of renewable groundwater resources. Countries like the United States, with a maximum renewable groundwater resource of 1383 cubic meters per year, benefit from diverse climatic zones that promote the circulation and replenishment of groundwater. Similarly, Brazil, with 645.6 cubic meters per year, has substantial renewable groundwater due to the vast Amazon rainforest, which facilitates a high rate of precipitation and groundwater recharge. On the other hand, arid regions often face challenges in replenishing groundwater, depending heavily on less frequent rainfall events.

Geographic Patterns and Variations

The distribution of renewable groundwater resources in 1996 showcases distinct geographic patterns. Countries like China (828.8 cubic meters per year) and India (432 cubic meters per year) have large renewable resources due to their extensive river systems and varied topography, which support aquifer recharge. In contrast, island nations such as Kiribati and Tuvalu reported no renewable groundwater resources due to limited land area and reliance on other water sources, highlighting the geographic discrepancies in groundwater availability. These variances underscore the need for tailored water management strategies that address local geographical realities.

Sustainability and Resource Management Challenges

In 1996, the sustainability of groundwater resources emerged as a critical issue, with countries like Indonesia (457.4 cubic meters per year) and Colombia (510 cubic meters per year) facing pressures from agricultural expansion and urban growth. Ensuring the sustainable use of groundwater is essential to prevent overexploitation, which can lead to issues such as land subsidence and decreased water quality. The Democratic Republic of the Congo, with its renewable groundwater resource of 421 cubic meters per year, illustrates the global challenge of balancing resource use with conservation efforts to maintain ecological integrity.

Policy and International Cooperation

Effective management of renewable groundwater resources in 1996 often involved international cooperation and robust policy frameworks. Countries like Canada (370 cubic meters per year) and Russia (788 cubic meters per year) exemplified the importance of transboundary water management agreements to ensure equitable sharing and sustainable utilization of shared aquifers. These policies are critical in preventing conflicts and promoting regional stability, especially in areas where groundwater serves as a key resource for multiple nations.

Historical Context and Trends

Analyzing the historical context of renewable groundwater resources reveals both stability and shifts in resource availability. In 1996, the average renewable groundwater resource across 186 countries was 57.34 cubic meters per year, with a slight decrease in availability compared to previous years. Notably, Moldova experienced the most significant decline, with a reduction of 0.90 cubic meters per year, attributed to climatic changes and anthropogenic pressures. This historical perspective underlines the dynamic nature of groundwater resources and the need for adaptive management strategies to address both natural fluctuations and human impacts.

Understanding the dynamics of renewable groundwater resources in 1996 offers valuable insights into how various factors—from climate and geography to policy and international collaboration—interplay to shape the availability and management of this essential resource. As countries navigate the complexities of water resource management, these insights become increasingly relevant in guiding sustainable practices and cooperative efforts worldwide.

Insights by country

Haiti

In 1996, Haiti ranked 127th out of 188 countries in terms of total renewable groundwater resources, with an estimated 2.157 cubic meters per year available per capita. This figure reflects the limited freshwater resources that the country can rely on for its population and agricultural needs.

The relatively low availability of renewable groundwater in Haiti can be attributed to several factors, including deforestation, poor land management practices, and climate variability. These conditions have severely impacted the hydrological cycle, leading to reduced groundwater recharge and increased vulnerability to droughts and water scarcity.

Additionally, Haiti's geographical location in the Caribbean makes it susceptible to hurricanes and tropical storms, which can disrupt water supply systems. The combination of these environmental challenges significantly affects the country's overall water security and public health.

Bangladesh

In 1996, Bangladesh ranked 60th out of 188 countries in terms of total renewable groundwater resources, with a reported volume of 21.122 cubic meters per year. This statistic highlights the significant reliance on groundwater for various sectors, including agriculture, drinking water, and industrial use in a country where surface water resources are limited.

The abundance of groundwater resources can be attributed to the country's extensive river systems and the aquifer recharge from seasonal monsoon rains. However, challenges such as over-extraction, contamination, and climate change pose threats to the sustainability of these water resources. As a densely populated nation, the demand for freshwater continues to grow, exacerbating the pressures on existing groundwater supplies.

Additionally, it is relevant to note that groundwater accounts for approximately 80% of the total water supply in Bangladesh, making it a critical component for food security and public health. The management and conservation of these resources are essential for the country's ongoing development and resilience against environmental challenges.

Bhutan

In 1996, Bhutan ranked 86th out of 188 countries in terms of total renewable groundwater resources, with an estimated availability of 9.5 cubic meters per year. This statistic reflects the country's unique geographic and climatic conditions, which are characterized by a mix of high-altitude terrain and monsoon influences that affect water availability.

The relatively modest volume of renewable groundwater resources in Bhutan can be attributed to factors such as its mountainous topography, which limits the accumulation and recharge of groundwater aquifers, as well as seasonal variations in rainfall. Additionally, the preservation of forest cover and traditional land management practices play a crucial role in maintaining water quality and availability.

Interestingly, Bhutan is known for its commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development, which is underscored by its policies aimed at protecting water resources. The country’s focus on maintaining a high percentage of forest cover, which is around 70%, is essential for groundwater recharge and the overall ecological balance.

Djibouti

In 1996, Djibouti ranked 167th out of 188 countries in terms of total renewable groundwater resources. The country possesses a mere 0.015 cubic meters per year of renewable groundwater, highlighting its severe water scarcity issues.

Several factors contribute to this limited supply of groundwater, including Djibouti's arid climate, with an average annual rainfall of less than 200 millimeters, and the predominance of desert landscapes that hinder water accumulation. Additionally, the high population density in urban areas exacerbates the demand for water resources.

As a result of these conditions, Djibouti has been compelled to rely heavily on alternative sources of water, including desalination and imported water, to meet the needs of its population. The country's challenges with water resources underscore the importance of sustainable water management practices to ensure adequate supplies for future generations.

Guinea

In 1996, Guinea ranked 45th out of 188 countries in terms of total renewable groundwater resources, with an estimated availability of 38 cubic meters per year per capita. This statistic highlights the significance of groundwater as a crucial resource for the country's agriculture, drinking water, and sanitation needs.

Guinea's relatively high rank can be attributed to its abundant natural resources, including a network of rivers and aquifers that contribute to its groundwater supply. The country's climate, characterized by a tropical wet and dry pattern, facilitates the replenishment of these groundwater sources, although seasonal variations can impact availability.

Moreover, the reliance on groundwater resources in Guinea underscores the challenges of water management and infrastructure development. Despite the availability of groundwater, issues such as population growth, pollution, and climate change pose risks to water quality and sustainability in the region.

Denmark

In 1996, Denmark ranked 113th out of 188 countries in terms of total renewable groundwater resources, with an estimated 4.3 cubic meters per year. This relatively low figure reflects Denmark's geographical and climatic conditions, which influence the availability and replenishment of groundwater resources.

The limited groundwater resources in Denmark can be attributed to its small land area and the predominance of urbanization, which affects natural water recharge processes. Additionally, Denmark has a strong emphasis on sustainable water management practices, which may result in conservative estimates of renewable resources as the country prioritizes the protection and conservation of its water supply.

Interestingly, Denmark is known for its advanced water management systems and technologies, which include extensive monitoring and efficient usage of both groundwater and surface water sources, contributing to its reputation as a leader in sustainable environmental practices.

Dominica

In 1996, Dominica ranked 172nd out of 188 countries regarding total renewable groundwater resources, with a recorded value of 0 cubic meters per year. This statistic indicates that the island nation does not have significant renewable groundwater resources available for use, which is a critical aspect for water supply and management.

The lack of renewable groundwater resources in Dominica can be attributed to its geography and climate. The island is characterized by a high level of rainfall, which feeds surface water systems rather than replenishing groundwater aquifers. Additionally, the volcanic nature of the island may limit the capacity for groundwater storage.

Despite the challenges posed by limited groundwater resources, Dominica is rich in surface water, which is sourced from its numerous rivers and streams. The country has made efforts to harness these resources for drinking water and agricultural uses, reflecting its commitment to sustainable water management.

Japan

In 1996, Japan ranked 54th out of 188 countries in terms of total renewable groundwater resources, with a measured availability of 27 cubic meters per year. This figure reflects Japan's diverse geography and significant rainfall, which contribute to its groundwater supply.

The relatively moderate ranking indicates that while Japan has substantial groundwater resources, it is not among the highest globally. Factors influencing this statistic include Japan's advanced water management systems, urbanization, and industrial demands that can impact groundwater recharge rates.

Interestingly, Japan's total renewable groundwater resources are complemented by extensive surface water systems, including rivers and lakes, which play a critical role in the country's overall water supply strategy. As a highly industrialized nation, Japan's emphasis on sustainable water use is essential for balancing consumption and conservation efforts.

Faroe Islands

In 1996, the Faroe Islands ranked 173rd out of 188 countries in terms of total renewable groundwater resources, with a reported value of 0 cubic meters per year. This statistic reflects the unique geographical and climatic conditions of the islands, which are characterized by a temperate maritime climate and significant precipitation.

The lack of renewable groundwater resources is primarily due to the Faroe Islands' reliance on surface water sources, such as rivers and lakes, which are adequately replenished by the frequent rainfall. Additionally, the islands have a limited land area and a rugged landscape, which further restricts the formation and storage of groundwater.

Interestingly, despite the absence of groundwater resources, the Faroe Islands have a strong focus on sustainable water management practices, utilizing rainwater harvesting and efficient water distribution systems to meet the needs of their population. This approach is essential in ensuring water availability and quality in a region where traditional groundwater sources are nonexistent.

Georgia

In 1996, Georgia ranked 67th out of 188 countries in terms of total renewable groundwater resources, with a reported volume of 17.23 cubic meters per year. This statistic highlights the country's significant reliance on its groundwater resources, which are crucial for agricultural, industrial, and domestic use.

The total renewable groundwater resources can be influenced by various factors, including the country's geographic location, climate conditions, and precipitation patterns. Georgia's diverse topography and climate, ranging from mountainous regions to lowland areas, contribute to its hydrological resources, enabling the replenishment of groundwater aquifers.

Additionally, the effective management of these resources is essential for sustainability, particularly in the context of increasing urbanization and climate change. As a point of interest, Georgia's ranking reflects its position among other countries in the region, where water resource management is critical due to varying geographical and climatic conditions.

Data Source

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger.

Visit Data Source

Historical Data by Year

Explore Total Renewable Groundwater Resources by Country data across different years. Compare trends and see how statistics have changed over time.

More Environment Facts

Agricultural land

Agricultural land measures the area dedicated to farming and cultivation in countries, impacting food production and sustainability. Understanding this statistic is crucial for assessing agricultural capacity and economic development.

View data

Browse All Environment

Explore more facts and statistics in this category

All Categories

Discover more categories with comprehensive global data