Climate & Environment
Sedimentation
Definition
Sedimentation is the settling and accumulation of eroded soil particles in water bodies. Accelerated by deforestation, poor agricultural practice and construction, excessive sedimentation shortens reservoir life (some major reservoirs have lost substantial fractions of capacity), raises flood levels, blocks navigation channels, degrades fish spawning gravels and smothers coral reefs and seagrass near eroding coasts.
References
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This reference provides supporting context for how “Sedimentation” is defined and used.
Overview
How it is used
The concept structures reservoir sedimentation management (flushing, bypass systems), watershed management, dredging policy, and water quality and coral reef conservation programmes.
Why it matters
Sedimentation is where land degradation meets water infrastructure — a slow, expensive problem that converts soil erosion into lost energy, water storage and marine life.