Author(s): Yitian Li; Zhaohua Sun; Jinyun Deng; Ling Jiang
Linked Author(s):
Keywords: Sediment Transport Processes; Environmental Changes; Yangtze River Basin
Abstract: Sediment processes play a key role for riverine environment changes. In this paper, an analysis of interaction between sediment transportation processes and environmental changes in the Yangtze River basin is presented. Based on data collection and analysis, it is concluded that the imbalance between erosion and sediment delivery in upland region implies probable sediment regime changes, which can’t be perceived under the assumption of steady sediment output in the river channel. Regional flood situation deterioration and ecological negative impacts are all responses of or in relation with the variation of sediment transportation processes in the middle reach of the river. Estuarial instability situation is to some extent linked with sediment processes either. In the changing environment, human disturbance will interact with sediment transportation. Anthropogenic impoundment in upland region will release the tense pressure on environment caused by potential and ongoing sediment transportation processes, but project safety and its effect need more extensive study, the changing sediment processes should be taken into account.
Year: 2004