How much of water is lakes?
Lakes, as one of the most vital freshwater resources on Earth, play a crucial role in the global water cycle and ecosystems. They cover a significant portion of the Earth’s surface, accounting for a substantial amount of the world’s freshwater. In this article, we will explore the percentage of water that lakes contribute to the Earth’s total water volume and discuss the importance of lakes in sustaining life on our planet.
Lakes are formed through various processes, such as tectonic activity, glacial movement, and human activities like damming rivers. According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), lakes cover approximately 2.2% of the Earth’s surface. This percentage may seem small, but when considering the total volume of water on Earth, lakes contribute a significant amount.
The Earth’s total water volume is estimated to be around 1.386 billion cubic kilometers (326 million cubic miles). Out of this, approximately 96.5% is saltwater, predominantly found in the oceans. The remaining 3.5% is freshwater, with a substantial portion stored in glaciers and ice caps. Lakes, rivers, and groundwater account for the remaining freshwater resources.
When it comes to the percentage of freshwater stored in lakes, estimates vary slightly. Some sources suggest that lakes contain around 0.013% of the Earth’s total water volume, while others propose a slightly higher figure of 0.015%. This translates to roughly 1.8 million cubic kilometers (430,000 cubic miles) of freshwater stored in lakes worldwide.
The importance of lakes cannot be overstated. They serve as critical habitats for a diverse range of plant and animal species, including many that are endemic to specific lakes. Moreover, lakes provide essential ecosystem services, such as water purification, flood control, and carbon sequestration.
Lakes also play a significant role in the global water cycle. They act as reservoirs, storing water that can be released during dry periods, helping to maintain river flows and support aquatic ecosystems. Additionally, lakes contribute to the regulation of local and regional climates by influencing temperature and humidity.
However, the health of lakes is under threat due to various factors, including pollution, climate change, and overexploitation. These threats can lead to a decline in lake water quality, loss of biodiversity, and reduced ecosystem services. As such, it is crucial to implement sustainable management practices and conservation efforts to ensure the long-term viability of lakes and the freshwater resources they provide.
In conclusion, lakes constitute a significant portion of the Earth’s freshwater resources, accounting for approximately 0.013% to 0.015% of the total water volume. Their importance in sustaining life, providing ecosystem services, and contributing to the global water cycle cannot be overstated. It is essential to recognize the value of lakes and take steps to protect and preserve these vital freshwater resources for future generations.
