Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) for Sustainable Riverbank Protection Using Coconut Coir and Vetiver Grass

Riverbank erosion is a natural process that can be accelerated by human activities, leading to issues like flooding, sediment pollution, and habitat loss. Improving riverbank stability can involve nature-based solutions (NbS) such as using coconut coir mats and Vetiver grass. This study aims to identify the best fibre and vegetation for sustainable riverbank protection. Reviews of past research suggest that coir fibre is the most feasible geotextile for enhancing riverbank stability. Coconut coir mats, made from coconut husks, are biodegradable, environmentally friendly, and provide a physical barrier that protects soil from erosion. They also improve soil water retention. Vetiver grass, a deep-rooted, drought-tolerant grass, stabilises slopes and enhances water quality. This study evaluated the performance of Vetiver grass and coconut coir in improving riverbank stability at Pusu River within IIUM Gombak. Preliminary fieldwork involved installing coir mats and Vetiver grass at the selected site. The study also assessed riverbank stability using soil investigation, riverbank profiling, and BSTEM simulation. Data collected were used to plot riverbank profiles and generate Factor of Safety (Fs) values. The results highlight significant advantages of combining coir mat and Vetiver grass as sustainable NbS riverbank protection, as this combination indicates notable improvement in overall stability compared to bare riverbanks or riverbanks with normal vegetation.