Editorial

Abstract

Aquifers comprise the most significant accessible water reservoirs for meeting human supply demands and maintaining numerous ecosystems. Currently, they serve as the primary water source for global human consumption. Recurring episodes of water crises, linked to global climate changes, highlight the importance of managing and preserving this resource. Deepening scientific knowledge about these water reservoirs, essential to any nation´s strategic planning, is crucial in achieving these goals. Thus, the focus of the Derbyana section dedicated to the Advances in Hydrogeology and Brazilian Aquifers aims to expand and disseminate this knowledge, including the participation of experts from different areas. This contribution seeks to illustrate the state-of-the-art research conducted on different aquifers, management and protection regulations, methodological innovations, unsolved issues, and future perspectives. The section was organized in collaboration with Professor Didier Gastmans from the Center for Environmental Studies at "Júlio de Mesquita Filho" São Paulo State University (UNESP).