Global-scale application of the RUSLE model: a comprehensive review

The Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) is the most widely used global soil erosion model. The poor performance of the RUSLE is solely dependent on the inherent structure of the RUSLE model to account for the soil erosion phenomena under varying topographic and climatic conditions. Considering the extensive global application of the RUSLE model, it is high time in research to identify the suitability of the RUSLE model under varying conditions. In this context, a global-scale review of the RUSLE model application was carried out to identify the best possible conditions for its reliable application and the conditions where it yielded poor performance. RUSLE is still the most frequently operational erosion simulation model despite its numerous deficiencies, weaknesses, and limitations. Nevertheless, the application over large and ungauged areas remains a real challenge due to the non-availability and quality of the required inputs.