Stakeholder Perceptions and Challenges in Soil and Water Bioengineering Practices

Soil and Water Bioengineering (SWBE) includes important techniques designed to address environmental challenges by utilizing plants' stabilizing and ecological properties, alongside natural materials like wood and stone. Although these practices are rooted in traditional land management, SWBE has gained renewed significance as part of modern sustainable strategies. Internationally, these approaches are increasingly recognized within frameworks such as Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) and Green and Blue Infrastructure (GBI), underscoring their role in mitigating hydrogeological risks and promoting resilient landscapes.

Despite the growing use of these terms in public funding calls and national and international regulations, the similarities and differences between these disciplines remain poorly defined. To address this issue, we investigated the current knowledge and perceptions of various practitioners - including engineers, architects, geologists, agronomists, foresters, and naturalists - regarding these concepts. Our goal was also to identify potential knowledge gaps and explore new areas for innovation in these fields.

A questionnaire was distributed across Italy, targeting professional associations that regulate and uphold a particular profession's standards and ethical practices. 1,429 participants responded, with 382 (26,7%) professionals indicating direct involvement in SWBE. The questionnaire contained tailored questions for those actively engaged in SWBE and individuals familiar with the concept but not practicing it. Most practitioners showed a solid understanding of both traditional and modern definitions. The survey highlighted a significant overlap between SWBE and NBS. This indicates a growing alignment in how these concepts are perceived, although further efforts are required to clarify the remaining ambiguities in their definitions. The questionnaire also addressed various aspects, including innovations, challenges, and recommendations. Among the key issues raised were the need for more comprehensive technical training, increased awareness among public institutions, better management of vegetation after interventions, and consistent monitoring of completed projects. These results emphasize the critical importance of fostering ongoing communication, enhancing professional education, and advancing standardization within the field. This will ensure more effective integration and application of SWBE and related approaches in diverse professional settings.