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Technology and Engineering
- ISSN: 2333-2581
- Modern Environmental Science and Engineering
Water Erosion in Brazil and in the World: A Brief Review
Renato Billia de Miranda1, Gustavo D’Almeida Scarpinella 2, Ricardo Siloto da Silva2 and Frederico Fábio Mauad1
1. University of São Paulo, Av. Trabalhador Sãocarlense, 400, São Carlos, CEP: 13560-970, Brazil
2. Federal University of São Carlos, Rodovia Washington Luiz, km 235, São Carlos, CEP 13565-905, Brazil
Abstract: Over the course of history soil erosion has been at the root of many problems, from small-scale local economic losses to the collapse of entire civilizations. Whether in rural areas, where erosion processes are more expressive and also visible, or in cities where its effects cannot be disregarded, erosion deserves attention and strategic studies. The objective of this article was to research and present a brief discussion about soil loss under the influence of rainwater surface erosion, focusing on Brazilian cases. The research shows high rates of soil loss, in many countries, especially in humid climates. Also highlighted are agricultural crops and dirt roads, the latter exhibiting erosion rates significantly higher than any agricultural activity. Besides particle entrainment, erosion is responsible for the removal of topsoil layers, reducing the fertility of agricultural areas, in addition to causing siltation of reservoirs and eutrophication of water bodies.
Key words: water erosion, sediment, silt
