Total Renewable Groundwater Resources by Country 2011

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	Burkina Faso	9.5 Cubic meters per year
87	Uzbekistan	8.8 Cubic meters per year
88	Romania	8.46 Cubic meters per year
89	Bhutan	8.1 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	Republic of Moldova	1.3 Cubic meters per year
139	Israel	1.225 Cubic meters per year
140	Lithuania	1.1 Cubic meters per year
141	Comoros	1 Cubic meters per year
142	Belgium	0.9 Cubic meters per year
143	Mauritius	0.893 Cubic meters per year
144	Timor-Leste	0.886 Cubic meters per year
145	State of Palestine	0.75 Cubic meters per year
146	Eswatini	0.66 Cubic meters per year
147	Trinidad and Tobago	0.614 Cubic meters per year
148	Libya	0.6 Cubic meters per year
149	Jordan	0.54 Cubic meters per year
150	Eritrea	0.5 Cubic meters per year
151	Gambia	0.5 Cubic meters per year
152	Lesotho	0.5 Cubic meters per year
153	Cyprus	0.41 Cubic meters per year
154	Turkmenistan	0.405 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

In 2011, the global assessment of Total Renewable Groundwater Resources by Country provided crucial insights into the availability and distribution of naturally replenished groundwater across the globe. Groundwater, a vital environmental resource, plays an essential role in sustaining ecosystems, supporting agriculture, and providing potable water. This metric, measured in cubic meters per year, highlights the disparities and abundance of groundwater resources among different nations, reflecting both geographic and climatic variations.

Climate and Environmental Influences on Groundwater Resources

The variation in total renewable groundwater resources is significantly influenced by climatic and environmental factors. Countries like the United States, which topped the list in 2011 with a staggering 1383 cubic meters of renewable groundwater per year, benefit from diverse climates and extensive river systems that recharge aquifers. Similarly, Brazil, with its Amazon rainforest, holds substantial groundwater resources, tallying at 645.6 cubic meters annually. In contrast, arid regions and smaller island nations such as Kiribati and Tuvalu, both recording zero renewable groundwater resources, face challenges due to limited rainfall and freshwater availability. These disparities underscore the critical role climate patterns play in determining groundwater availability.

Regional Disparities and Geographic Patterns

The data from 2011 illustrates stark regional disparities in groundwater resource distribution. North America, represented by the United States and Canada, shows substantial groundwater availability due to favorable climatic conditions and extensive natural water systems. Canada, for instance, reported 370 cubic meters per year. In contrast, several Pacific Island nations, including Tonga and the Cook Islands, recorded no renewable groundwater resources, highlighting the challenges faced by island regions with limited landmass and high evaporation rates. Meanwhile, Asian giants like China and India, with 828.8 and 432 cubic meters respectively, reflect the influence of large river basins like the Yangtze and Ganges, which are critical for recharging groundwater.

Sustainability and Resource Management Implications

Managing renewable groundwater resources sustainably is a pressing global challenge. Countries with high groundwater availability, like Russia and Indonesia, with 788 and 457.4 cubic meters per year respectively, have the potential to exploit these resources for agriculture and industry. However, over-extraction without adequate replenishment can lead to severe environmental consequences, including land subsidence and ecosystem degradation. The data from 2011 emphasizes the need for policies promoting sustainable water management, especially in regions with abundant resources. Effective governance and international cooperation are vital in ensuring that these resources are used responsibly, maintaining ecological balance and supporting economic growth.

Policy Impact and International Cooperation

The disparities highlighted in the 2011 groundwater resource data invite discussions on policy impacts and the necessity for international cooperation. Countries with scarce groundwater resources, such as those in the Middle East and parts of Africa, need strategic policies to mitigate water scarcity and ensure equitable distribution. International agreements and collaborations, such as transboundary water management treaties, can play a significant role in addressing these challenges. Furthermore, technological advancements in water conservation and recycling can aid in enhancing the efficiency of groundwater usage globally, providing a framework for sustainable development and resource management.

Future Trends and Projections

Looking ahead, the trends observed in 2011 serve as a baseline for understanding future groundwater resource dynamics. Climate change, with its impact on precipitation patterns and temperature, is expected to further influence groundwater availability. Countries with substantial renewable resources today may face challenges in maintaining these levels due to altered climatic conditions. Conversely, advancements in technology and increased awareness of water conservation can help mitigate these effects, potentially leading to improved groundwater management globally. Continuous monitoring and data collection are essential in adapting to these changes, ensuring that water resources are preserved for future generations.

The 2011 data on Total Renewable Groundwater Resources by Country highlights the complexities of managing a critical natural resource in a rapidly changing world. By understanding the factors influencing groundwater availability and implementing sustainable practices, countries can better prepare for the environmental and economic challenges of the future.

Insights by country

Ireland

Ireland ranks 80th out of 188 countries in terms of total renewable groundwater resources, with a reported value of 10.8 cubic meters per year. This statistic highlights the country's relatively modest groundwater resources compared to many other nations, reflecting its geographical and climatic conditions.

The availability of renewable groundwater resources in Ireland is influenced by its temperate maritime climate, characterized by significant rainfall and relatively high humidity. However, factors such as urbanization, agricultural practices, and seasonal variations in precipitation can impact the replenishment of these groundwater resources.

In addition to groundwater, Ireland also benefits from extensive surface water resources, which are crucial for both domestic and agricultural use. As of 2011, the focus on sustainable water management practices has become increasingly important, especially in light of climate change and its potential effects on water availability.

Tajikistan

Tajikistan ranked 103rd out of 188 countries in terms of total renewable groundwater resources in the year 2011. The country possesses approximately 6 cubic meters of renewable groundwater resources per year, reflecting its reliance on this vital resource for agriculture, drinking water, and industrial needs.

This relatively low figure can be attributed to several factors, including the country's mountainous terrain, which affects precipitation patterns and water runoff, as well as challenges related to infrastructure and water management practices. Furthermore, Tajikistan's economy is heavily dependent on agriculture, which increases the demand for groundwater resources.

Interestingly, Tajikistan is home to the Panj River, one of the longest rivers in the region, which contributes to the country's overall water supply. However, the over-extraction of groundwater and the impacts of climate change pose significant challenges to the sustainability of these resources in the future.

Kenya

In 2011, Kenya ranked 117th out of 188 countries in terms of total renewable groundwater resources, with an estimated availability of 3.5 cubic meters per year. This ranking highlights the country's challenges in managing its water resources, particularly in the context of a growing population and increasing demand for water.

The relatively low figure of groundwater resources can be attributed to several factors, including climatic variability, which affects precipitation patterns; land degradation, leading to reduced infiltration; and over-extraction of groundwater for agricultural and urban use. These factors collectively contribute to a significant strain on Kenya's water supply systems.

Additionally, it is important to note that groundwater is a critical resource in Kenya, especially in arid and semi-arid regions where surface water is scarce. Efforts to enhance groundwater management and sustainable practices are essential to ensure water availability for future generations.

Argentina

In 2011, Argentina ranked 19th out of 188 countries in terms of total renewable groundwater resources, with a significant availability of 128 cubic meters per year per capita. This ranking reflects Argentina's diverse geography, which includes vast plains and mountainous regions that contribute to its groundwater recharge capabilities.

The substantial renewable groundwater resources in Argentina can be attributed to its large aquifer systems, particularly the Guaraní Aquifer, one of the largest in the world, which underlies parts of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. The management and sustainability of these groundwater resources are crucial, especially in the context of agricultural practices, as agriculture is a significant sector in Argentina's economy.

Additionally, Argentina's reliance on groundwater for irrigation and domestic use highlights the importance of effective water management policies to ensure the continued availability of this vital resource in the face of challenges such as climate change and increasing water demand.

Guinea

In 2011, Guinea ranked 45th out of 188 countries in terms of total renewable groundwater resources, with an estimated 38 cubic meters per year per capita. This statistic underscores the country's relatively abundant water resources, which play a crucial role in sustaining both the population and agricultural activities.

The availability of renewable groundwater in Guinea can be attributed to its diverse hydrological systems and significant rainfall during the wet season, which replenishes aquifers. However, challenges such as over-extraction, pollution, and inadequate infrastructure to manage these resources can affect long-term sustainability.

Interestingly, groundwater serves as a vital resource for rural communities in Guinea, where access to clean drinking water remains a pressing issue. As a nation rich in both surface and groundwater, effective management is essential for ensuring water security and supporting economic development.

India

In 2011, India held the eighth position globally in terms of total renewable groundwater resources, with a remarkable availability of 432 cubic meters per year per capita. This substantial figure underscores the country's reliance on groundwater, which serves as a crucial resource for agriculture, drinking water, and industrial use.

Several factors contribute to India's high renewable groundwater resources, including its extensive river systems, monsoon rains, and diverse climatic zones which facilitate the replenishment of aquifers. However, despite this abundant resource, challenges such as over-extraction, pollution, and seasonal variability pose significant threats to groundwater sustainability.

Additionally, it is noteworthy that groundwater accounts for approximately 60% of the total irrigation needs in India, highlighting its importance in sustaining the country's agricultural output and food security. As such, effective management and conservation strategies are essential to ensure the longevity of this vital resource.

Iceland

Iceland ranks 57th out of 188 countries in terms of total renewable groundwater resources, with a significant annual yield of 24 cubic meters per capita. This statistic reflects the country’s unique geological and hydrological characteristics, as it is situated on a hotspot of geothermal activity, contributing to an abundance of freshwater resources.

The relatively high renewable groundwater resources in Iceland can be attributed to its abundant rainfall and melting glaciers, which replenish aquifers and surface water systems. Furthermore, the country's low population density and sustainable water management practices ensure that these resources are preserved and utilized effectively.

Interestingly, Iceland is renowned for its commitment to renewable energy, with approximately 85% of its total energy supply coming from renewable sources, primarily geothermal and hydropower. This holistic approach to environmental sustainability enhances the country's ability to manage and protect its groundwater resources efficiently.

Faroe Islands

In 2011, the Faroe Islands ranked 173rd out of 188 countries in terms of total renewable groundwater resources, with a recorded value of 0 cubic meters per year. This statistic highlights the unique hydrological characteristics of the islands, where groundwater resources are minimal due to a combination of factors including the islands' geological composition and limited freshwater aquifers.

The Faroe Islands are primarily characterized by their rugged terrain and a climate that supports abundant rainfall, which contributes to surface water resources rather than groundwater. The absence of significant groundwater resources has implications for water management and agricultural practices, necessitating reliance on surface water and rainwater harvesting systems.

Interestingly, the Faroe Islands have a relatively high per capita availability of freshwater when considering total water resources, owing to their small population and extensive rainfall. This situation exemplifies how geographical and climatic conditions can influence water resource availability in different regions.

Antigua and Barbuda

In 2011, Antigua and Barbuda ranked 169 out of 188 countries regarding total renewable groundwater resources, with a reported value of 0 cubic meters per year. This statistic indicates a significant limitation in the country's natural freshwater supply, which is crucial for sustaining its population and agricultural activities.

The absence of renewable groundwater resources in Antigua and Barbuda can be attributed to its geographical and climatic conditions, characterized by a tropical climate with limited rainfall and high evaporation rates. The islands are primarily reliant on rainwater harvesting and desalination processes to meet their freshwater needs, which can be costly and logistically challenging.

Additionally, it is noteworthy that the Caribbean region, including Antigua and Barbuda, faces increasing pressures from climate change, leading to more frequent and severe droughts. This exacerbates the challenges related to water scarcity and highlights the importance of sustainable water management practices in the region.

Côte d'Ivoire

Côte d'Ivoire ranks 47th out of 188 countries in terms of total renewable groundwater resources as of 2011. The country possesses approximately 37.84 cubic meters of renewable groundwater resources per year, highlighting its significant potential for sustainable water supply.

This volume of groundwater resources plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities, drinking water supply, and overall economic development in Côte d'Ivoire. Factors contributing to this statistic include the country's geographical location, climatic conditions, and the presence of aquifers that can be sustainably managed.

Furthermore, the management of these resources is vital, as Côte d'Ivoire faces challenges such as population growth and urbanization, which can increase demand for water and strain existing supplies. Notably, while the country has adequate groundwater resources, the effective governance and infrastructure for water management remain critical for ensuring accessibility and sustainability.

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