Unveiling tectonic activity through lithological-erosional interplay with the Τectonic Processes Index Tδ

Identifying regions susceptible to earthquakes is crucial for mitigating seismic hazards. This study introduces the Tectonic Processes Index (T_δ), a novel morphotectonic index that integrates lithology (δ) to enhance the assessment of tectonic activity and seismic hazards. Traditional indices such as the Hypsometric Integral (HI) can be limited in areas dominated by erodible lithologies. While HI accounts for both tectonic and erosional influences, it often fails to fully capture basin evolution under complex geological conditions. T_δ addresses this limitation by explicitly incorporating the interaction between tectonic forces, erosional patterns, and lithological variability. This comprehensive approach offers a more detailed understanding of basin development and its tectonic significance. Application in northwestern Greece—a region with diverse geological settings—demonstrates the T_δ’s effectiveness. The validity of T_δ is further supported through comparative analysis with mapped tectonic structures, seismicity records, and conventional morphotectonic indices, confirming its robustness in capturing active tectonic processes. T_δ reliably distinguishes quiescent basins from those affected by neotectonic deformation. Compared to traditional methods, it offers improved resolution in identifying tectonically active areas. Beyond seismic hazard assessment, T_δ has the potential to inform land-use planning and support geological resource management in seismically sensitive regions.