Did you know that more people use groundwater for drinking than use rainwater or surface water and that agriculture is responsible for 70% of global water withdrawal? Groundwater is water found underground in aquifers which, although hidden from view, are vital to agriculture, economic growth, nature and health. Groundwater is an especially important source of water as rainfall varies due to Climate Change - see the latest IPCC report for more details. This briefing pack provides some of the latest evidence and information about groundwater.

It also presents information on how the Climate and Environment Department at FCDO is tackling water security to reach two overarching goals: > Tackle and reverse growing water insecurity and its consequences caused by depletion and degradation of natural water sources > Address poor water management and increasing demand In this pack we discuss the UK’s Water action at COP26; programme activities around water and climate, water governance, finance, and gender and the UK’s welldeveloped water ‘offer’, that together, can help reach the goal of global water security. Here you will find key facts, messages and videos,– all intended for colleagues invited to World Water Day events or wanting to engage in some water diplomacy! For more info please contact Andy Roby, CED Senior Water Security Adviser at FCDO.