Bibliometric Analysis of River Erosion Control Measures: Examination of Practices and Barriers in Colombia

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of research on bank erosion and control measures, utilizing the Scopus database and VOSviewer software. Key terms such as “bank”, “erosion”, “control”, and “protection” frequently appear in the literature, underscoring their importance in studies on riverbank erosion. Since 2000, scientific production has steadily increased, particularly in disciplines such as Environmental Sciences and Earth and Planetary Sciences, driven by growing concerns about climate change and sustainable water resource management. Countries with substantial research resources, such as the United States and China, lead in the production of studies, reflecting their commitment to addressing this global issue. In parallel, the evaluation of erosion mitigation practices in Colombia revealed that, although effective techniques such as gabion walls and riparian vegetation exist, 40% of respondents do not implement specific measures. This lack of implementation is attributed to insufficient knowledge, limited resources, and misconceptions about the effectiveness of these techniques. The findings highlight the need to promote proven practices and enhance professional training. Future research should focus on developing more accurate predictive models, integrating interdisciplinary approaches, and assessing the impacts of climate change on bank erosion. Addressing barriers to applying effective techniques at the local level and improving access to resources and knowledge are critical steps to reducing bank erosion and ensuring sustainable water management.