Modern technologies transforming landslide research: Italian expert

Modern technologies and advanced scientific tools are transforming the way landslides are studied and managed worldwide, said Prof Sabatino Cuomo from the University of Salerno (UNISA), Italy.

Speaking to The Tribune during the LARAM Course 2026 at IIT-Mandi, Prof Cuomo highlighted how new research methods are helping scientists better understand complex slope failures and strengthen disaster preparedness.

According to him, landslide risk assessment today relies on a combination of field investigations, remote sensing technologies and advanced computational modelling.

“Ground investigation remains an essential step in understanding slope conditions. Researchers study soil properties, vegetation, geological structures and environmental factors that influence slope stability,” he explained.

Prof Cuomo said remote sensing had emerged as one of the most widely used tools in landslide research. Satellite imagery enables scientists to monitor terrain changes over long periods and detect early signs of slope movement.

He added that modern computational models now allow researchers to simulate complex landslide scenarios by analysing interactions between soil, water, rock and other geological elements.

“In the past, studies often focused on simple landslide events. Today we are able to model complex cascading processes that involve multiple factors,” he said.

Another important aspect of modern landslide research, he noted, is quantitative risk assessment, which enables scientists and authorities to estimate potential damage and economic losses caused by landslides.

However, Prof Cuomo pointed out that the implementation of quantitative risk assessment varies across countries.

“In some places such as Hong Kong, quantitative risk assessment has been applied for many years. In Europe, countries are gradually moving towards similar approaches,” he said.

He also emphasised the importance of field-based observations alongside technological tools.

Despite the availability of powerful computational models, direct observation of slopes and real-world conditions remains crucial for accurate analysis and effective mitigation planning.

“Field investigations provide the practical understanding needed to design realistic and implementable solutions,” Prof Cuomo said.

He added that international collaboration among scientists was equally important as landslides occur across diverse geological environments worldwide.

“By sharing knowledge and research findings, experts can develop more effective strategies to reduce landslide risks globally,” he said.