How can human activity exacerbate the risks of mass movements?

Human activity can exacerbate the risks of mass movements through deforestation, urbanisation, and improper land use.

Deforestation is a significant human activity that increases the risk of mass movements. Trees and vegetation play a crucial role in stabilising the soil. Their roots bind the soil together, reducing its susceptibility to being washed or blown away. When humans cut down trees for timber or to clear land for agriculture or construction, they remove this natural protection. Without the roots to hold it together, the soil becomes loose and more prone to mass movements like landslides and mudslides, especially during heavy rains.

Urbanisation is another human activity that exacerbates the risks of mass movements. As cities expand, they often encroach on hilly or mountainous areas, where the risk of landslides is high. The construction of buildings, roads, and other infrastructure can destabilise slopes and increase the likelihood of mass movements. Furthermore, the removal of vegetation for construction and the alteration of natural drainage patterns can lead to increased runoff, which can trigger landslides and other forms of mass movement.

Improper land use, such as overgrazing and unsuitable agricultural practices, can also heighten the risk of mass movements. Overgrazing by livestock can lead to vegetation loss, leaving the soil exposed and vulnerable to erosion. Similarly, certain agricultural practices, like the cultivation of steep slopes without appropriate soil conservation measures, can lead to soil degradation and increase the risk of mass movements.

Mining and quarrying activities can also contribute to the risk of mass movements. These activities often involve the removal of large amounts of rock and soil, which can destabilise slopes and lead to landslides. In addition, the vibrations caused by blasting can trigger mass movements, especially in areas where the geological structure is already unstable.

In conclusion, human activities such as deforestation, urbanisation, improper land use, and mining can significantly increase the risks of mass movements. These activities often involve the alteration of the natural environment in ways that destabilise slopes and degrade the soil, making mass movements more likely.