Inclusion of Nature-Based Solution in the Evaluation of Slope Stability in Large Areas

Abstract

In areas affected by mining, which are undergoing reclamation, their geotechnical characteristics need to be monitored and the level of landslide risk should be assessed. This risk should preferably be reduced by nature-based solutions. This paper presents a KurZeS slope stability assessment technique based on areal data. This method is suitable for large areas. In addition, a procedure is presented for how to incorporate a prediction of the impact of nature-based solutions into this method, using the example of vegetation root reinforcement. The paper verifies the KurZeS method by comparing its results with the results of stability calculations by GEO5 software (version 5.2023.52.0) and validates the method by comparing its results with a map of closed areas in the area of the former open-cast mine Lohsa II in Lusatia, Germany. The original feature of the KurZeS method is the use of a pre-computed database. It allows the use of an original geometrical and geotechnical concept, where slope stability at each Test Point is evaluated not just along the fall line but also along different directions. This concept takes into account more slopes and assigns the Test Point the lowest safety factor in its vicinity. This could be important, especially in soil dumps with rugged terrain.