Fact Check: The Great Lakes contain about 20% of the world's fresh surface water.

Fact Check: "The Great Lakes contain about 20% of the world's fresh surface water."

What We Know

The Great Lakes, which include Lakes Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario, are a significant freshwater resource. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Great Lakes account for approximately 21% of the world's supply of surface freshwater. This statistic is corroborated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which also states that the Great Lakes hold about 20% of the world's freshwater. Furthermore, the Great Lakes are described as one of the largest surface freshwater ecosystems globally, containing 84% of North America's surface fresh water (EPA) and supporting a population of over 30 million people who rely on this water for drinking and other uses.

Analysis

The claim that the Great Lakes contain about 20% of the world's fresh surface water is supported by multiple reputable sources, including government agencies like the EPA and NOAA. The consistency of the data across these sources enhances its reliability. The EPA's report highlights the Great Lakes' importance not only in terms of volume but also in their ecological and economic significance, supporting agriculture and providing drinking water to millions (EPA).

The NOAA further reinforces this claim by providing additional context about the geographical and ecological features of the Great Lakes, emphasizing their vastness and the critical role they play in the North American ecosystem (NOAA). The figure of 21% is often cited, but it is generally accepted that this number can fluctuate slightly based on measurement methods and definitions of freshwater.

Moreover, an independent fact-checking source, Politifact, also confirms that the Great Lakes account for 21% of the world's freshwater, aligning with the data from the EPA and NOAA. This agreement among multiple authoritative sources lends credibility to the claim.

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The claim that "The Great Lakes contain about 20% of the world's fresh surface water" is accurate based on reliable data from the EPA, NOAA, and corroborated by independent fact-checking organizations. The slight variation in the percentage (20% vs. 21%) does not undermine the overall truth of the statement, as both figures are widely accepted and reflect the Great Lakes' substantial contribution to the world's freshwater supply.

Sources

1. Great Lakes Facts and Figures - US EPA
2. Great Lakes - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
3. Great Lakes Water Life: NOAA Great Lakes Environmental Research
4. Great Lakes ecoregion - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
5. PDF Large Lakes of the World - Stony Brook University
6. Welcome to the High Museum - High Museum of Art
7. Do the Great Lakes account for over 20% of the world's freshwater?
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