Detail Abstract

Sedimentation and opportunities for future elevation gain in the Mekong delta

Abstract

The Mekong delta is one of the largest in the world, home to more than 17 million people and supporting internationally important agricultural productivity. Deltaic land naturally subsides, and requires constant sediment input to maintain elevation relative to sea level. These processes are complicated by human activity, which can increase the rate of subsidence through groundwater pumping and other mining activities as well as prevent sediment deposition indirectly through reducing available fluvial sediment and directly through infrastructure construction on deltas.<br> This research presents the potential for fluvial sediment delivery to compensate for sea level rise and subsidence in the Mekong delta over the 21st century. We use detailed elevation data and subsidence scenarios in combination with fluvial sediment flux projections to show what areas of the Mekong delta could potentially maintain elevation relative to sea level, considering also projections of regional sea level rise. The potential for sediment-based adaptation is complicated by existing land use. A change in water and sediment management is required to effectively use natural resources and employ these adaptation methods.