The Impact of Climate Change on Soil Erosion Rates in Badra Basin Using RUSLE and Future Climate Projections

 This study examines the potential impacts of climate change on soil erosion rates in the Badra Basin, Wasit Governorate, using the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) model and future climate projections. Soil erosion is a significant environmental challenge in the region, exacerbated by climatic variability, including changes in rainfall intensity and distribution. The RUSLE model was applied to the Badra Basin, integrating spatial datasets, including rainfall erosivity (R- factor) ranging from 228 to 495 MJ mm ha⁻¹ h⁻¹ year⁻¹, soil erodibility (K-factor) values between 0.02 and 0.05, and topographic factors derived from Digital Elevation Models (DEM). Climate change projections, under Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5), were used to estimate future soil loss. Results showed that areas in the northern mountainous regions of the basin are at high risk, with potential soil losses exceeding 200 tons per hectare per year under severe climate scenarios. The study emphasizes the need for adaptive soil conservation strategies, including reforestation and improved agricultural practices, to mitigate the projected increase in soil erosion. These findings provide critical insights for policymakers and land managers to develop sustainable approaches to land use in response to future climate impacts.