RAP PUBLICATION 2011/19

Forests and landslides

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Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific
Bangkok 2011

ABSTRACT

Steep terrain, vulnerable soils, heavy rainfall and earthquake activity make large parts of Asia highly susceptible to landslides. The significance of landslides is set to increase in the coming years as a result of population growth, expansion of infrastructure, and increased forestry and agricultural activity in the region. In temperate and tropical Asia, projected climate change related impacts are likely to result in compound effects of landslide incidences. Landslides cause environmental damage to forests and agricultural resources by removing topsoil, blocking rivers and increasing downstream sedimentation. Scientific studies confirm the crucial role of trees and forests in preventing landslides not only by reinforcing and drying soils, but also in directly obstructing smaller slides and rock falls. However, the role of trees and forests in the case of deep-seated landslides or in extreme events is unlikely to have any effect. Landslides are a growing hazard in Asia and it is important for policy-makers to understand when, where and how trees and forests are useful in reducing landslides, and what they can and cannot do, based on sound science. This publication describes, from a technical standpoint, the extent to which the preservation or planting of forests can reduce the incidence of landslides, and where forestation projects are valuable in land rehabilitation and stabilization after landslides occur. Key findings and recommendations for policy-makers are provided, as well as an extensive list of reference materials.

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