Baseline chemistry of groundwater in UK aquifers

Measuring wellhead chemistry.

BGS has an established programme of research on the baseline chemistry of groundwater from aquifers in England, Wales and Scotland. Investigations have helped to:

characterise groundwater quality
establish the dominant controlling processes
interpret the baseline groundwater conditions, against which impacts of pollution can be assessed

Results of the investigations are useful to groundwater users and potential users, water suppliers, and regulators with a remit to manage available resources, establish the current status of groundwater quality and ensure national compliance with European legislation such as the Water Framework Directive or the Drinking Water Directive.

Find out more about how we define and investigate baseline groundwater quality.