Algeria correspondent Zoubida Nemer owns an MSc in Applied Geophysics and is currently pursuing a PhD in Geophysics at the University Sciences and Technology Houari Boumediene Algeria. She is specialised in hydrogeophysics, a field dedicated to the study of groundwater resources through the application of surface and aerial geophysical techniques. The primary objective is to gain insight into the characteristics and behavior of hidden aquifers. Additionally, Zoubida has a profound appreciation for cartography and the art of creating visually appealing maps.
Why did you decide to join the Groundwater Correspondents Network?
"I strongly believe that groundwater is the most precious resource on our planet, and I have long been passionate about raising awareness among people to protect it. Joining the Groundwater Correspondents Network provides me the perfect platform to fulfill this mission. Through this opportunity, I aim to emphasize the significance of our groundwater resources and advocate for collective efforts to ensure their sustainability. It is crucial that we come together and work collaboratively to safeguard this invaluable natural resource."
Which topics would you like to cover during your period as correspondent?
"During this programme, I aim to shed light on the critical importance of both groundwater quality and quantity. When discussing groundwater quality, I will emphasize the multitude of threats that pose risks to these valuable resources. One significant issue I will talk about saline intrusion, particularly in coastal aquifers, which can lead to the degradation of water quality and render it unsuitable for various uses.
Shifting the focus to groundwater quantity, I will highlight how climate change is increasingly exacerbating the scarcity of groundwater resources. This growing challenge requires our immediate attention and collective action. In this context, I will showcase historical examples from the Sahara desert, where our ancestors successfully employed techniques to equitably manage and sustain groundwater resources. By examining the techniques utilized in the Sahara desert, we can draw inspiration and learn valuable lessons for managing groundwater resources more effectively today. These ancestral methods serve as a testament to the potential for sustainable groundwater management in the face of scarcity and changing climatic conditions."