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Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research

Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research

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Policy brief: Traditional knowledge of planting vegetation on verges and slopes for slope stabilization needs to be promoted in the local development program

Landslides and soil erosion represent two common phenomena in mountainous regions, induced by heavy rainfall, floods, and human activities along the slopes. The practice of using vegetation to enhance slope stability is established in mountainous areas in Nepal and is deeply ingrained in traditional farming management, such as hedgerows, slope site plantation and agroforestry. Such techniques are gradually diminishing within the newer generations due to shifts in livelihood practices and a growing emphasis on engineering-based solutions. We advocate the integration of these practices into local development programs, which predominantly prioritize costly measures like embankments, gabion walls, and roadside canals. This shift not only offsets cost but also provides multiple benefits, including soil protection, the increase of green spaces, and biodiversity. There is a need for guidelines to promote traditional knowledge of planting vegetation on verges and slopes for slope stabilization.