Researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU) have determined that saline groundwater from coastal aquifers is a better alternative water source than seawater for RO desalination, due to reduced membrane fouling and pretreatment costs. The study was published in Environmental Science & Technology. Other saline groundwater benefits included consistent annual water temperatures and lower levels of dissolved oxygen, silt density and phytoplankton. It also decreases the cost of desalination.