Virtual Booth

ABSTRACT

Slope instability, soil erosion, uncontrolled runoff, and landslides pose serious threats to communities, infrastructure, and ecosystems, while the increasing population of invasive Pleco fish in urban waterways creates a growing environmental challenge. SlopeGuard presents an innovative waste-to-resource, nature-based solution that transforms invasive Pleco fish into functional biochar for sustainable slope stabilization. Integrated with modular panels, vegetation support channels, drainage pathways, and ground anchors, Pleco-derived biochar enhances soil water retention, improves soil conditions, supports root establishment, and helps reduce erosion. The system is designed to work progressively with vegetation, creating a dynamic and self-reinforcing slope protection mechanism that combines ecological restoration with structural stability. Field testing will evaluate its effectiveness in water absorption, runoff management, erosion reduction, slope stability, and vegetation growth. By converting an invasive aquatic species into a value-added material, SlopeGuard applies circular economy principles to disaster risk reduction while contributing to SDG 6, SDG 11, SDG 13, and SDG 15. Ultimately, SlopeGuard transforms an environmental problem into an engineering opportunity—turning invasive fish into biochar, vulnerable slopes into resilient landscapes, and disaster risk into community protection.

Keywords: Pleco fish; biochar; slope stabilization; erosion control; landslide mitigation; water retention; vegetation reinforcement; circular economy; nature-based solution; sustainable engineering.