Fresh water under the sea: A surprising discovery beneath the ocean floor

As the global demand for freshwater intensifies, especially in coastal regions vulnerable to climate change, discovering unconventional resources is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. One such promising yet largely overlooked resource lies beneath the ocean floor: offshore freshened groundwater (OFG).

Join us for an enlightening Malta Café Scientifique event where we dive into the depths of this hidden freshwater reserve with Dr Ariel Thomas, a Marie Curie research fellow and geophysicist. In his talk, Fresh water under the sea: A surprising discovery beneath the ocean floor, Dr Thomas will demystify OFG—explaining what it is, how it forms, and why it may play a crucial role in future water security.

The evening will also spotlight the science and innovation driving OFG research, including two major European efforts: OPTIMAL, which harnesses machine learning to predict OFG occurrence, and OFF-SOURCE COST Action, a network led by Dr Thomas himself, exploring the viability of OFG as a sustainable freshwater source.

With roots in Trinidad and research experience across five countries, Dr Thomas brings a global perspective to this pressing issue. His unique background in geophysics and science communication makes this talk both accessible and thought-provoking for scientists, policy makers, and curious minds alike.

Don’t miss this opportunity to uncover the science behind one of the planet’s most mysterious and potentially transformative natural resources.

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Malta Café Scientifique thanks the STEAM project, Spazju Kreattiv for hosting this event, the University of Malta, and the Malta Chamber of Scientists (of which the Café forms part).