Overview of Different Land Use Practices and Impact on Soil Erosion

Abstract

Soil erosion is a significant environmental problem that can lead to land degradation, loss of arable land, and decreased agricultural productivity. The relationship between land use practices and soil erosion is complex, and understanding these effects is essential for sustainable land management. This review examines recent research on how various land use practices—such as agricultural practices, urbanization, forestry, and conservation techniques—affect soil erosion rates. We focus on the influence of land cover, vegetation, soil properties, and human interventions on the processes of soil erosion. Key findings indicate that land use changes, such as deforestation, overgrazing, and urban expansion, tend to increase soil erosion rates, whereas land conservation methods such as agroforestry, contour farming, and vegetative cover can mitigate these effects. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge and suggests areas for future research and policy development.