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  Addressing Groundwater Overreach and Desertification: Holistic Environmental Management – Mike Buchanan 2025 Introduction The interconnected challenges of groundwater overreach and desertification pose significant threats to global ecosystems and human livelihoods. As populations grow and demands on natural resources increase, the need for sustainable causative management practices has never been more urgent. Groundwater Overreach Groundwater depletion is a widespread issue affecting many densely populated countries. Over-abstraction for agricultural and industrial purposes has led to severe environmental consequences, including land subsidence and reduced water quality (Wada et al. 2010). (Gleeson et al. 2012). Impact on Climate Excessive drying of continental soils disrupts local and regional climates, leading to changes in cloud formation and precipitation patterns. This exacerbates drought conditions and impacts ecosystems and agriculture. (Zeng et al. 2014). (S...
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  The Interconnectedness of Hydrological Systems: Challenges in Modelling and Regulation - Mike Buchanan 2024 Abstract This paper explores the complexities of hydrological modelling and the implications for regulatory frameworks. It argues that traditional modelling approaches often fail to account for the interconnectedness of catchments and geological facies, leading to potential inaccuracies in water resource management. The importance of ground truthing, field research, and the integration of experiential knowledge is emphasized as essential for developing effective regulations. Introduction Hydrology is a complex field that requires an understanding of various interconnected systems. Traditional modelling approaches have often focused on isolated catchments, neglecting the broader interactions that occur within and between these systems. This paper discusses the limitations of current modelling practices, the necessity of field validation, and the implications for regu...
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  Hypothesising the Malmani sequence, Oolitic origins, South Africa. Mike Buchanan 2024 The dolomitic Malmani sequence within the Transvaal Supergroup is a geological formation in South Africa, known for its well-preserved Archaean-aged sedimentary rocks, including oolites (Beukes, 1987; Sumner, 1997). The oolites in this sequence have been the subject of much debate regarding their origin, with some researchers suggesting a biogenic origin (Sumner, 1997; Kazmierczak et al., 2015). The uniform size and shape of the oolites, as well as the presence of small apparent “exit holes”, are consistent with a biogenic origin (Kazmierczak et al., 2015). The size range of the oolites, approximately 2.8-3.2 mm, is similar to that of modern coral polyps (Veron, 2000). This similarity in size, combined with the presence of “exit holes”, suggests that the oolites may be the fossilised remains of ancient non-conglomerated coral-like organisms (Kazmierczak et al., 2015). The Archaean atmosphe...
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  The Impending Collapse of Groundwater-Dependent Ecosystems: A Global Crisis Requiring Geoethical Focused Intervention   Mike Buchanan - 2025 Abstract Groundwater is a vital, yet often overlooked, component of the Earth's hydrological system. It supports diverse subterranean ecosystems, provides essential baseflow to surface water bodies, is a crucial source of potable water for human populations worldwide. However, unsustainable groundwater extraction, pollution, and disruption of natural recharge processes have led to the rapid depletion and degradation of aquifers globally. This paper synthesises the latest scientific evidence demonstrating the severe and accelerating impacts of groundwater depletion on ecosystems, climate, and human communities. I argue that the groundwater crisis represents an existential threat that demands a radical transformation in how we manage this critical resource. Introduction Groundw...
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