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| Article Title | The Effects of Vegetation Restoration on Soil Erosion in China: A Review | | Author | Lishan Ran, Xixi Lu and Xu Jianchu | | Year | 2012 | | Journal Title | Critical Reviews in Environmental Science and Technology | | Institution | DOI:10.1080/10643389.2011.644225 | | Pages | 1-28 | | Call Number | JA0474-12 | | Keywords | Vegetation restoration, Soil erosion, Soil reduction benefit, China |
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| Abstract: |
| Soil erosion, as the second biggest environmental and public health problem facing human
society, has posed significant and widespread concern. China has been one of the countries that
have long suffered from severe soil erosion which has led to widespread land degradation and
decreased crop yields, seriously hindering economic and social development. During the past
few decades, China has made a large effort at soil conservation to combat soil erosion;
vegetation restoration strategy was a major approach given equal importance compared to
engineering measures. A measure of success has been achieved. However, many uncertainties
remain such as to what extent the vegetation restoration measures have reduced soil erosion and
whether it is worthwhile to conduct vegetation restoration programs at larger spatial scales. This
paper first analyzes the impacts of vegetation restoration on soil erosion in terms of vegetation
cover variation, vegetation species and their dependence on precipitation. Then the spatial scale
effect of soil reduction benefits from vegetation restoration is elaborated: that is, the soil
reduction benefit decreases with increasing spatial treated area. In addition, a comprehensive
discussion about the dispute between vegetation restoration and engineering measures is made
in combination with published studies spanning large spatial and temporal scales. Finally, future
research needs regarding vegetation restoration efforts are given. In order to accurately evaluate
the effects of vegetation restoration programs on soil erosion, shorter temporal dynamics and
larger spatial-scale assessments should be undertaken in future. And also, the present flawed
assessment system has to be improved. Specific areas demanding immediate attention are
highlighted as well. |
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GRP 6: Developing policies and incentives for multifunctional landscapes with trees that provide environmental services
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