Geoecological analysis of the impact of slope processes on ecosystem services in recreational areas: A case study of Kyiv

Abstract

Background. Global climate change and the increasing anthropogenic pressure on the relief of urbanized areas contribute to a higher risk of hazardous geological processes, including erosion and landslides. These processes, in turn, affect the provision of ecosystem services to urban residents. Identifying such hazardous areas requires an integrated approach. This paper examines several recreational areas within the city of Kyiv, including the Holosiivskyi Forest park zone (Holosiivskyi Sinkhole and Didorivskyi Ravine) and the Park of Eternal Glory together with its adjacent territories. The main features of hazardous geological processes are identified, the factors controlling slope stability under anthropogenic pressure are analyzed, and the landslide hazard within the study areas is assessed.
Methods. The study employed a comprehensive set of field geological and geomorphological investigations, including visual field surveying, qualitative and quantitative assessment of landform characteristics, analysis of the lithological and stratigraphic features of geological units, and LiDAR surveying.
Results. The conducted investigations made it possible to assess the intensity of linear denudation and slope deformation, which resulted in changes to the terrain morphology. The dynamics of both natural and anthropogenically induced geomorphological processes were traced within the Park of Eternal Glory and its adjacent areas, including the territory of the National Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra Reserve. It was established that the development of these processes causes slope deformation, adversely affects architectural complexes, and poses threats to the preservation of archaeological heritage. Areas subjected to increased anthropogenic pressure were identified, where structural cracking of buildings and flooding of underground structures, including the caves of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, were recorded. Potential degradation of cultural ecosystem services, particularly recreational services, was also identified. These impacts are manifested in restricted access to certain areas due to gully erosion, damage to pedestrian pathways, reduced safety of recreational and sports activities, degradation of landscape aesthetics, the formation of new landforms, and the transformation of historically established landscapes.
Conclusions. Detailed investigations of the key study sites made it possible to identify the cause-and-effect relationships between anthropogenic impacts, ecosystem condition, and the capacity of the area to provide recreational ecosystem services. The integration of the research findings into urban management is proposed to support the conservation of ecosystem services in recreational areas, enhance environmental safety, and improve the quality of life of the metropolitan population.