Open access
1. The important role of rivers
Rivers are one of the most important natural resources on Earth, supporting indispensable functions for both humans and ecosystems [1]. Firstly, rivers are a primary source of freshwater, supplying essential water for agriculture, industry, and daily life. Secondly, rivers play a significant role in regulating climate and maintaining ecological balance, through cycling water, sediment, and nutrients. They also serve the functions of navigation, energy generation (such as hydropower), and recreational activities.
2. Climate change and human activities induced growing threats to rivers
Despite their importance, rivers globally are experiencing growing threats from climate change and human activities over the past two to three decades [2]. The global temperature rise is now expected to be between 1.5 and 5°C by the end of the century [3]. Global warming has accelerated the glacier melting and changed rainfall patterns, leading to frequent floods in some areas and more severe droughts in others. Moreover, rising water temperatures and the increase in extreme weather events have disrupted the balance of river ecosystems, endangering aquatic life [4]. It was reported that we are on the brink of an irreversible climate disaster [5]. Take the past year of 2024 as an example, in March–May, heavy rainfall in East Africa caused severe flooding that killed hundreds and affected more than 700,000 people. Then in April–May, extensive flooding in southern Brazil devastated 478 cities, killed 173 people. In October, rainstorm in eastern Spain led to catastrophic floods, resulting the death of over 220 people, marking the deadliest flood event in Europe since 1967. In addition to climate-induced effects, river basins are also under immense pressure from human activities [6]. Dam construction, wastewater discharge, land use changes, and excessive water extraction are major issues. It was estimated that the number of reservoirs to be
3. The need and methodology for river research
As climate change and human activities intensify, research on river substances transport and basin management has become critical for sustainable development [9]. A variety of methodologies have been employed to study rivers, including field measurements, numerical simulations, and laboratory experiments. Recently, big data and machine learning have become valuable tools, which benefit our understanding of river basin dynamics and supporting decision-making [10].
4. Objectives of this book
There is a need now more than ever to address the challenges of river basin management [11]. Studies predict that nearly one billion people reside in areas where action will likely be necessary, with approximately 365 million people living in basins where action is almost certain to be required [8]. The objectives of this book are to provide insights into tacking these challenges, predicting future changes, and developing adaptive strategies, such as flood prevention and disaster reduction, river channel restoration, maintaining river ecological balance, and ensuring sustainable water use. The chapters cover topics such as new approaches for water quality and environmental monitoring, soil erosion modeling, and the use of big data and machine learning in hydrology. Case studies on nature-based solutions for river restoration are also included. River basin management is a complex and urgent field. It requires a holistic approach to develop sustainable solutions for growing challenges. This book offers policymakers, researchers, water managers, and environmentalists practical knowledge and strategies to tackle these challenges effectively.
References
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