CHAP 4
1. Introduction of Applied Geomorphology
04 Applied ii. Slopes and landslides
Geomorphology iii. Concept of Hazard and Risk
iv. Geo tourism
Introduction
In the realm of Earth sciences, geomorphology is a fascinating field that studies the
formation and evolution of landforms. Among its various branches, applied geomorphology
stands out as a practical discipline that utilizes the principles of geomorphology to address real-
world issues. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of applied
geomorphology, including its definition, meaning, and key concepts.
Defining Applied Geomorphology
Applied geomorphology refers to the practical application of the principles and
theories of geomorphology to address real-world challenges related to landforms, landscapes,
and their interactions with human activities.
It involves the study of landforms, their formation processes, and the dynamic
interactions between natural processes and human-induced changes. Through a
multidisciplinary approach, applied geomorphology aims to provide insights and solutions for
sustainable land use planning, environmental management, and hazard mitigation.
In the words of D.K.C. Jones (1980),
Applied geomorphology refers to the practical application of geomorphic expertise in the
analysis and resolution of various concerns pertaining to land usage, resource management,
environmental conservation, and strategic planning.
The Core Theme of Applied Geomorphology
Every scientific discipline consists of two primary dimensions in its study, namely,
• The systematic and theoretical dimension.
• The applied dimension.
The value of any field of knowledge lies in its ability to identify and address the challenges
faced by human society, resulting from the interactions between human activities and
geomorphic and environmental systems. From this perspective, the study of geomorphology,
the science of landforms, holds utmost importance, as it explores the origins and evolution of
surface features on Earth, which serve as the foundation for all life forms, particularly human
beings.
Many of the issues that concern present-day society are linked to environmental degradation,
spanning from local to regional and global scales, caused by human activities characterized by
exploitative and unsustainable use of natural resources, a consequence of rapid population
growth. Geomorphological understanding can prove highly beneficial in comprehending such
environmental problems and facilitating their rectification and resolution.
Geomorphologists consider all research in the field to be "applied" since every advancement
in knowledge provides valuable insights into the functioning of the Earth. Therefore, we are all
considered applied scientists (R.G. Craig and J.L. Craft, 1982). The utilization of
geomorphological techniques and the findings from geomorphological investigations play a
significant role in resource evaluation, socio-economic development, and the mitigation of
natural hazards and disasters. These aspects of applied geomorphology should be duly
acknowledged by geomorphologists.
The primary focus of applied geomorphology revolves around understanding the effects and
alterations caused by human economic activities on natural environmental systems and
geomorphic processes. It aims to address the issues arising from these activities by suggesting
appropriate remedial measures. Additionally, applied geomorphology examines how
geomorphic and environmental processes impact various aspects of human society and
activities. Lastly, it involves managing resources and monitoring changes in geomorphic and
environmental systems, encompassing landscape characteristics and landform processes
influenced by human economic activities.
Branches of Applied Geomorphology:
1. Urban Geomorphology
Urban geomorphology, a relatively new but highly valuable field within applied
geomorphology, focuses on the study of landforms, their associated processes, and material
hazards in a manner that aids in the effective planning, development, and management of urban
areas. It specifically pertains to regions that are already urbanized or anticipated to undergo
urban growth.
2. Environmental Geomorphology
Environmental geomorphology focuses on the influence of natural phenomena such
as volcanic activity, floods, droughts, landslides, and erosion processes on human endeavours
and landscapes. It also examines the reciprocal effect of human activities on natural and
environmental processes, addressing the challenges arising from these interactions and
proposing measures to manage the environment and mitigate natural disasters.
3. Anthropo geomorphology
Anthropogeomorphology focuses on the impact of human activities as powerful
agents of geomorphic processes. These activities can either hasten or slow down the natural
rate of geomorphic and environmental processes to a significant extent, leading to profound
geoenvironmental issues. These problems have already emerged and have proven detrimental
to human society. The majority of geomorphic and environmental processes have undergone
substantial alterations due to human activities. Additionally, certain geomorphic systems have
become vulnerable, such as the occurrence of earthquakes, landslides, floods, droughts, and the
stability of hillslopes and ground surfaces. These phenomena have been significantly
influenced by human intervention.
Applications of Applied Geomorphology
1. Environmental Impact Assessment
Applied geomorphology contributes to environmental impact assessments by evaluating the
potential impacts of development projects on landforms, ecosystems, and natural processes.
Through detailed analyses, applied geomorphologists can identify potential risks, propose
mitigation measures, and provide recommendations to minimize adverse effects and preserve
environmental integrity.
2. Urban Development and Infrastructure Planning
In urban areas, applied geomorphology aids in infrastructure planning and development. By
considering the geomorphic characteristics of a region, such as its hydrology, soil stability, and
flood risks, planners can design resilient infrastructure systems and implement effective
stormwater management strategies. This approach ensures the long-term sustainability and
resilience of urban environments.
3. Natural Resource Management
Applied geomorphology plays a crucial role in the sustainable management of natural
resources. By understanding the geomorphic processes that influence soil erosion,
sedimentation, and water availability, applied geomorphologists can develop strategies for
sustainable agriculture, forestry, and water resource management. This knowledge helps
preserve ecosystems, maintain soil productivity, and protect biodiversity.
4. Climate Change Adaptation
As climate change continues to impact the planet, applied geomorphology becomes
increasingly important for climate change adaptation strategies. By assessing the vulnerability
of coastal zones, river basins, and mountainous areas to climate-related hazards, applied
geomorphologists can assist in developing adaptive measures and land use policies that reduce
risks and enhance resilience to climate change impacts.
The Significance of Applied Geomorphology
Applied geomorphology plays a crucial role in understanding and managing the complex
relationship between humans and their environment. By examining landforms, land-use
patterns, and geomorphic processes, applied geomorphologists can contribute valuable
knowledge to various fields, such as urban planning, environmental science, engineering, and
natural resource management. This interdisciplinary approach helps decision-makers and
planners make informed choices that minimize environmental risks and optimize land use for
sustainable development.
Conclusion
Applied geomorphology is a dynamic field that combines scientific knowledge with practical
applications. By studying landforms, processes, and their interactions with human activities,
applied geomorphologists contribute to sustainable land management, hazard mitigation, and
environmental preservation. Their expertise is invaluable in addressing the challenges posed
by human-induced changes and a changing climate.
Landslides are simply defined as the mass movement of rock, debris, or earth down a slope.
They often take place in conjunction with earthquakes, floods, and volcanoes.
Natural Causes of Landslide
Climate: Soil stability may be significantly impacted by long-term climatic changes.
Earthquakes: Seismic activities have, for a long time, contributed to landslides across the globe.
Any moment tectonic plates move, the soil covering them also moves along.
Weathering: Weathering is the natural procedure of rock deterioration that leads to weak,
landslide-susceptive materials.
Erosion: Slope support is destroyed by erosion brought on by sporadic running water, such as
streams, rivers, wind, currents, ice, and waves, which makes landslides more likely to happen.
Volcanoes: Volcanic eruptions can trigger landslides. The stratovolcano is a typical example
of a volcano responsible for most landslides across the globe.
Human causes of landslides
Mining: Landslides are greatly amplified by mining activities that use blasting techniques. The
explosives’ vibrations have the potential to damage the soil in other regions prone to landslides.
Timber Harvesting: Clearcutting is a method of harvesting timber that involves cutting all old
trees from the area. This method is hazardous since it completely destroys the local mechanical
root system.
Effects of Landslides
Impact on the Economy: Landslide causes destruction of the property. Its rehabilitation and
rebuilding cost millions.
Damages to infrastructure: The force flow of mud, debris, and rocks as a result of a landslide
can cause serious damage to personal property and other significant infrastructures such as
roads, railways, leisure destinations, buildings, and communication systems.
Loss of life: Communities living at the foot of hills and mountains are at greater risk of
landslides. Most of the disaster-prone areas are highly populated which makes lives more
miserable.
Affects the beauty of landscapes: The flow of mud, rock, and debris disturbs the natural sight
or beauty of a place.
Decline river ecosystems: The substances landslide carries with themselves block or hinder
their natural flow. It causes a serious impact on many river habitats like fish as they can die
due to interference with the natural flow of water.
Trigger Flood: It can lead to the diversion of river water that can lead to flood in areas and loss
of properties as well.
Impact on Livelihood: Communities depending on the river water or coasts for household
activities, livelihood, and irrigation will suffer from it.
Affect Development: Landslides make the development and other infrastructural projects risky
as well as costly, which, in turn, adversely affects the developmental activities in these areas.
Hazard:
Hazard may be defined as "a dangerous condition or event, that threat or have the potential for
causing injury to life or damage to property or the environment." The word 'hazard' owes its
origin to the word 'hasard' in old French and 'az.-zahr' in Arabic meaning 'chance' or 'luck'.
Hazards can be grouped into two broad categories namely natural and manmade.
Types of Hazards
Hazards are generally categorized according to their causes, mitigation strategies, or effects on
societies. We will limit the classification of disasters to those that are based on their causes
only.
Types of Hazards depending upon their causes
Hazards are classified as either natural or man-made. Socio-natural hazards are the third
category of hazards that are brought on by both man and nature.
Types Types of Hazards Hazards
Geological Hazards 1. Earthquake 4. Landslides
2. Tsunami 5. Dam Burst
3. Volcanic Eruption 6. Mine Fire
Water & Climatic 1. Tropical Cyclone 6. Cloud Best
Hazards 2. Tornado and hurricane 7. Landslide
3. Flood 8. Heat and Cold Wave
4. Drought 9. Snow Avalanche
5. Hailstorm 10. Sea Erosion
Environmental 1. Environmental Pollution 3. Desertification
Hazards Biological 2. Deforestation 4. Pest Infection
1. Human/Animal Epidemics 3. Food Poisoning
2. Pest Attacks 4. Weapons of mass destruction.
Chemical, Industrial · Chemical disasters · Oil Spills/Fires
and Nuclear Accidents · Nuclear disasters · Nuclear
Accident Related Transportation Urban fires bomb · Building collapse
blast/Forest fires · Electrical accidents
· Festival related disasters
Geo tourism is tourism associated with geological attractions and destinations. Geo
tourism deals with the abiotic natural and built environments.
Geo tourism was first defined in England by Thomas Alfred Hose in 1995.
Geo-Tourism:
Geo tourism is defined as "tourism that sustains or enhances the geographical character of a
place - its environment, culture, aesthetics, heritage, and the well-being of its residents."
It will foster community involvement, improve the local economy and create respect for local
culture and tradition.
India is a country with diverse physical attributes, rich cultural heritage and eventful ancient
history and its subcontinent exhibits imprints of varied geological processes through ages and
is a storehouse of interesting geological features.
Geo tourism is important for a number of reasons:
Geotourism is tourism associated with geological attractions and destinations.
Geo tourism is a great way to learn about the Earth and its history. By visiting
natural or geological sites, you can gain a better understanding of how the Earth was formed
and how it has changed over time.
Geo tourism can be a great way to appreciate the natural beauty of the Earth. By visiting sites
such as mountains, volcanoes, hot springs, and caves, you can get a better sense of the amazing
geological features of our planet.
Geo tourism can also be a great way to support local communities. By engaging with the local
community and learning about the area’s history and culture, you can help support the local
economy and promote sustainable tourism practices.
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