.png){kind=icon}
.png){kind=icon}
Return
Human imprints on global riverfronts
.png){kind=icon}
OA
AI
DOI：10.1038/s41467-026-75777-0.png)
.png){kind=icon}
.png){kind=icon}
Share.png){kind=icon}
Save
Abstract
En 中文
Rivers are profoundly shaped by human activity along their water-land interfaces (riverfronts), yet the global distribution and drivers of these imprints remain poorly understood. Here we present a high-resolution global map of 7.52 million kilometers of riverfronts using satellite imagery and deep learning. We find that nearly 20% of global riverfronts are anthropogenically modified, primarily by agriculture (13.43%) and built-up areas (6.29%). A distinct modification belt spans parts of Africa and Eurasia, accounting for ~60% of global alterations, with imprint densities six times higher than elsewhere. This lateral fragmentation represents a pervasive human pressure that differs fundamentally from dam-induced longitudinal fragmentation, and is closely linked to deteriorating water quality and biodiversity threats. Environmental constraints and region-specific socio-economic dependencies further shape these spatial patterns. Our findings inform riverfront management and underscore the urgent need to reconcile development with the ecological integrity of these transitional zones. The global map of riverfront landscapes reveals that nearly one-fifth of riverfronts have been modified by human activity. This extensive footprint creates widespread fragmentation that fundamentally reshapes land-water interactions, providing crucial insights for rethinking global river management.
AI Summary
Key information extracted from the uploaded paper, including a brief overview, abstract, background, key highlights, visual analysis, and future outlook.
Journal
IF:
15.7
Papers:
9.2W
Citations:
91.2W
View more organizations