Geomorphology
The study of landforms and the processes of erosion, transport, and deposition that shape them.
Why it matters now
Humanity now moves more sediment than all the world's rivers combined, which is the literal basis of the Anthropocene as a geological claim. Deltas starved of sediment by dams are sinking while seas rise, and the same science that diagnoses the problem prescribes the remedy: controlled sediment diversions, dam removal, and living shorelines.
Where this is happening on Earth
- AsiaMekong delta subsidence, VietnamUpstream dams and sand mining starve a delta feeding tens of millions.
- North AmericaMississippi delta sediment diversions, LouisianaEngineered reconnection of river to marsh to rebuild land against subsidence.
- EuropeElwha and European dam removalsRiver restoration releasing stored sediment and restoring beaches and fish runs.
- AfricaNile delta erosion below the Aswan High Dam, EgyptA coastline retreating since the sediment supply was cut.
- South AmericaAndean sediment flux to the AmazonThe mountain source of the nutrients that sustain a continental floodplain.
The idea itself
The encyclopedia entry first, then live searches at journals and magazines that keep returning current work on this specific idea.
Current reporting from around the world
Standing feeds at reputable periodicals. These stay fresh on their own, which is why they are here instead of a list of articles that would be out of date within a season.