Final answer:
Lake Baikal in Russia contains 20% of the world's freshwater and is regarded as the deepest and oldest lake, known as the Galapagos of Russia. Due to pollution, its substantial fresh water resources are at risk. The majority of Earth's freshwater is trapped in ice caps, glaciers, or exists as groundwater, with lakes holding only a small fraction.
Step-by-step explanation:
The lake that contains 20% of the world's freshwater, claimed as the largest volume lake on Earth, and known to be the deepest and the oldest is Lake Baikal, often referred to as the Galapagos of Russia.
This remarkable body of water has been significantly impacted by pollution, threatening its unique ecosystems. While the Great Lakes hold 21% of the world's surface fresh water, Lake Baikal stands apart for its volume of freshwater resources.
Distribution of fresh water on Earth presents a stark picture with the oceans containing 97% of the planet's water, making just 3% fresh water, most of which is trapped in glaciers, ice caps, and as groundwater. With increasing environmental concerns, mechanisms to preserve such vital water reservoirs are critically necessary not only for current populations but for future generations.
It is important to note that while lakes like the Great Lakes and Lake Victoria are significant, the vast majority of fresh water is not readily accessible as it exists either in ice caps and glaciers or as groundwater. This fact accentuates the critical nature of conservation and responsible management of our surface water resources.