Dear Colleagues,

Karst phenomena can result in the formation of spectacular natural landscapes, which can be partly exploited as show caves and tourist sites, but, at the same time, they can represent serious threats to human property and activity. Numerous anthropic structures and infrastructures are underlain by karstified bedrocks around the world, and about 20% of population lives on or nearby karst-prone areas. Consequently, karst phenomena pose an increasing number of engineering challenges because the surface displacements induced by the underground dissolution processes can seriously damage or sometimes even destroy man-made structures. In facing these problems, the first step is the detection and monitoring of the phenomena and the elements at risk. This requires an investigation at different spatial scales under different surface conditions (topography, land cover, soil properties, geological settings). To this end, remote sensing represents a useful tool to monitor the spatial and temporal evolution of ground deformations due to karst processes in order to carry out effective mitigation strategies through the detection of the hazardous areas and the most exposed elements. Remote sensing acquisitions from terrestrial, airborne, and satellite sensors along with optical, hyperspectral, Lidar, and SAR techniques, are nowadays able to provide key information on detecting and monitoring karst processes and evolution. Results obtained from remote sensing observations can be integrated with geological and geophysical measurements for modelling the instability and the associated causal factors, and for assessing the vulnerability of anthropic elements as well.

Our aim is to realize a Special Issue that serves as a reference point for remote sensing applications aimed at the detection, characterization, and monitoring of karst processes and their effects on structures/infrastructures at risk. Toward this goal, we encourage scientists and engineers to submit the results of their experiences on engineering problems in karst using remote sensing data and innovative methods for hazard and risk assessment.

Prof. Mario Floris
Prof. Mario Parise
Prof. Zhong Lu
Dr. Giulia Tessari
Prof. Konstantinos G. Nikolakopoulos
Guest Editors

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• karst
• remote sensing
• detection
• monitoring
• modelling
• hazard
• vulnerability
• risk
• mitigation strategies