Pergamon and its Multi-Layered Cultural Landscape
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A novel capacity-building framework has been developed to enhance the conservation of Bergama's (Pergamon) multi-layered cultural heritage. This approach integrates community involvement, NGO collaboration, and stakeholder engagement, drawing from the UNDP's general capacity-building model. Key actors were identified through keyword scanning, surveys, interviews, and frequency analysis, alongside a tailored capacity-building scale for experts. The research evaluates existing and targeted capacities while addressing heritage-community dynamics in Bergama's urban core. This holistic method aims to strengthen institutional structures and foster sustainable conservation practices, offering a replicable model for other heritage sites.
Village of Sidi Bou Saïd
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A detailed analysis of surface sediments along the coastal zone between Sidi Bou Saïd and La Goulette reveals distinct granulometric and mineralogical patterns. Fine sands dominate shallow areas (-2 to -10 m), while the beach top transitions from average sands near Sidi Bou Saïd to finer sands toward La Goulette, indicating a spatial sorting of sediments influenced by transverse currents. Mineralogical analysis shows quartz as the predominant component, with lesser amounts of calcite and dolomite, and clay minerals including kaolinite, smectite, and illite. This study highlights the dynamic sediment distribution shaped by coastal currents, providing insights into the geomorphological processes affecting this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
City of Quito
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Research on the mortars used in Quito's colonial churches reveals distinct construction techniques and material preferences based on religious order. The study analyzed 48 mortar samples from the Company of Jesus, Santo Domingo, and San Francisco churches, finding that the Jesuits primarily used lime and gypsum mixtures, while the Dominicans and Franciscans favored volcanic aggregate-based mortars. These findings validate historical datations and suggest a fusion of European and local construction techniques. The research employed non-destructive testing methods, including X-ray diffraction and microscopy, to systematically analyze samples without damaging the structures. This study contributes to understanding the chronological development of Quito's churches and proposes guidelines for future restoration efforts, ensuring compatibility with historical materials.
Stevns Klint
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Injecting carbonated seawater (CSW) slightly enhances oil recovery in chalk reservoirs at high temperatures, making it the most effective brine among tested options. This study, using Stevns Klint outcrop chalk as an analogue for North Sea chalk reservoirs, found that CSW outperformed other brines like formation water (FW), seawater (SW), and carbonated formation water (CFW) in both secondary and tertiary flooding modes. While oil swelling and viscosity reduction were initially hypothesized as key mechanisms, the research suggests wettability alteration is more likely responsible for the observed increase in oil recovery. The study also confirmed CO2 diffusion from the brine to the oil phase but noted that a significant amount of CO2 remained in the brine, with no notable mineral dissolution or changes in pore surface minerals. These findings highlight the potential of carbonated smart water injection as an environmentally friendly method to boost oil production while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Ancient Building Complex in the Wudang Mountains
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Case studies on cultural landscapes reveal complex interactions between human and natural systems, highlighting their significance for heritage conservation. These studies demonstrate that communities associated with such landscapes often span vast networks, extending beyond geographical boundaries. Examples include tourists linked to West Lake, dispersed Maori peoples connected to Ihumaatao, Micronesians tied to Yap, Taiwanese associated with longan orchards, viticulture systems in the Azores, and Chinese Taoists spiritually connected to the Wudang Mountains. Scale emerges as a critical factor in understanding these landscapes, underscoring the importance of case studies in sharing knowledge for their preservation.
Manas Wildlife Sanctuary
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Manas National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its unique biodiversity and ecological significance, has successfully implemented futuristic approaches to promote sustainable tourism. This case study highlights the park's focus on eco-friendly practices such as waste management, energy conservation, and water resource management, which have minimized the environmental impact of tourism activities while preserving the fragile ecosystem. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining in-depth interviews with local communities and tourists, observations, and document analysis to gather qualitative and quantitative data. This study underscores the importance of community involvement, stakeholder cooperation, and sustainable practices in achieving long-term sustainability in tourism. The innovative strategies adopted by Manas National Park serve as a valuable model for other protected areas seeking to balance conservation objectives with tourism development.
South China Karst
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Twelve new species of troglomorphic pseudoscorpions from the genus <em>Bisetocreagris</em> (Family Neobisiidae) have been discovered in karst caves across Guizhou Province, China. These species exhibit notable adaptations to subterranean life and were identified through detailed morphological analysis, including diagnoses, descriptions, and illustrations. The findings expand the known biodiversity of cave-dwelling pseudoscorpions in the South China Karst, a region renowned for its unique geological and ecological significance as part of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks
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A study highlights the rich cultural traditions of Chapada dos Veadeiros, Goiás, through its festivals, dances, and theatrical performances. These expressions serve as a foundation for aesthetic-cognitive learning, particularly within higher education in performing arts. The research, conducted via a combination of fieldwork and academic projects, maps these traditions to reveal their historical and cultural significance, offering insights into their role in shaping artistic education. The findings underscore the importance of integrating local heritage into curricula for a deeper understanding of artistic practices.
Ennedi Massif: Natural and Cultural Landscape
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Researchers have uncovered the first known evidence of soft-sediment striated surfaces and a fully preserved grounding zone wedge (GZW) in the Ennedi Massif, Chad, offering unprecedented insights into the behavior of a mid-latitude, marine-terminating ice sheet during the Late Palaeozoic Ice Age (LPIA). These findings suggest the presence of a soft-deformable bed that could explain extensive mega-scale glacial lineations across the plateau. The study utilized satellite imagery and band-ratio techniques to analyze proglacial, ice-marginal, and subglacial structures, providing a detailed interpretation of this exceptional palaeo-ice stream landscape.
Simien National Park
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Research on geladas (Theropithecus gelada) in Simien National Park, Ethiopia, reveals that low social rank and primiparity pose significant energetic challenges for female primates. These factors increase glucocorticoid (GC) levels during gestation, delay weaning, and slow maternal reproductive pace, potentially impacting offspring development long-term. Additionally, the study found that a stronger hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis response in white-faced capuchins (Cebus imitator) correlates with higher survival probabilities when facing deadly challenges, suggesting an adaptive role of the HPA axis in prioritizing immediate survival. The research combines data from long-term primate studies to examine GC responses to energetic challenges alongside measures of reproductive success and survival.
Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks
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A hidden Markov model (HMM) using GPS data from collared bighorn sheep successfully identified parturition events with 93% accuracy, offering a novel method to detect lambing dates without extensive field observations. The study found that periparturient ewes in Banff National Park preferentially selected high-elevation sites with rugged terrain, solar aspects, and proximity to escape routes post-lambing, while also avoiding areas near roads or trails. These findings highlight the importance of minimizing human disturbance during lambing periods to protect maternal behavior and ensure access to suitable habitats, providing critical insights for wildlife management in UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks.
Western Tien-Shan
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Anthropogenic development in the Ugam River valley, Western Tien Shan, has significantly altered bird population structure and diversity over 70 years. Research comparing historical (1949) and recent (2003, 2011, 2022) avifauna data reveals a sharp decline in species richness—from 114 to 44 species—and a shift toward human-associated species, now accounting for up to 29% of individuals. The study highlights that increased anthropotization reduces both biodiversity and the ecological uniqueness of the valley, with notable declines in natural biotope-dependent species. Longitudinal observations, including standardized surveys in 2003 and 2022, quantified these changes, showing a 50% reduction in bird abundance despite expanded human activity across the valley.
Historic Areas of Istanbul
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Istanbul's historic areas, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (WHS) in 1985, have experienced significant shifts in stakeholder dynamics and governance since their designation. The study reveals that the 1972 Convention has catalyzed a 'supranational' multi-stakeholder approach, elevating local debates to an international platform and imposing new pressures on urban planning and conservation efforts. This paper assesses how the Convention's framework influences national decision-making processes, particularly in the context of Istanbul's urban historic centers. By analyzing state of conservation reports and stakeholder perspectives, it highlights both the impacts and limitations of international regulations in shaping heritage management practices.
Ironbridge Gorge
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Ironbridge Gorge, once defined by its industrial might and the allure of its 'sublime horrors,' exemplifies how cultural landscapes evolve with shifting economies and politics. The European Landscape Convention highlights that landscapes are shaped by human interaction with nature, often driven by food security needs and surplus production. This dynamic process leads to distinctive regional features, from cultivation patterns to settlement styles, which today attract tourists seeking the same aesthetic appeal as did Europe's grand tourists of the past. The study balances this historical perspective with an analysis of how contending groups have influenced landscape development through political processes, underscoring the interplay between economic change and governance in shaping cultural heritage.
New Lanark
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New Lanark demonstrates that ethical business practices can coexist with profitability, challenging contemporary economic assumptions. Robert Owen's cotton mill, owned by investor-owners, proved profitable while treating employees and families with dignity during 19th-century Scotland. This model shows that ethical imperatives, if aligned with competitive strategies, can drive productivity and profitability without increasing average costs. The study highlights the potential for investor-owned firms to be both ethical and successful, provided investors prioritize ethics and recognize its profitability. While employee co-operatives share similar benefits, they remain rare. New Lanark's legacy offers a practical framework for building ethical, profitable businesses in today's competitive landscape.
Historic Villages of Korea: Hahoe and Yangdong
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A rare consensus emerged among seven poets on the establishment of Oksan Gugok, a significant cultural site in Yangdong village, Korea. This study reveals that the creation and management of such sites were driven more by spiritual significance than geographical features, reflecting a shift from traditional Confucian values to an emphasis on ancestral heritage. The research highlights Changryeo Lee Jeong-gi's role in establishing Oksan Gugok, influenced by the legacy of Hoejae Lee Eon-jeok and the advice of Gwangroe Lee Ya-soon. Over 30 years, 15 poets contributed to this site, underscoring its enduring cultural and spiritual importance.
Notre-Dame Cathedral in Tournai
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Michel Huglo's collection 'Chant grégorien et musique médiévale' offers a comprehensive exploration of Gregorian chant and its evolution, focusing on monophonic and polyphonic additions to the medieval repertoire. The study delves into significant musical works, including the Kyrie, introit tropes from St-Gall, an elegy for William the Conqueror (d. 1087), versus by Venantius Fortunatus for the cathedral of Paris, liturgical dramas from Fleury, early organum, the Mass of Tournai, and a Requiem by Eustache Du Caurroy. This collection represents the second phase of Huglo's research, providing valuable insights into the development and significance of medieval music within the context of UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Notre-Dame Cathedral in Tournai.
Mount Taishan
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Tourists at Mount Taishan, a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site and 5A-level scenic area, exhibit strong cognitive awareness of low-carbon tourism but show limited actual engagement due to prioritization of comfort, convenience, and economic factors. While education level and income significantly influence tourists' willingness to adopt low-carbon practices, their behavior remains constrained by practical considerations. The study highlights a disconnect between intention and action, offering insights for policymakers and businesses to bridge this gap through targeted strategies. This research provides a framework for promoting sustainable tourism while balancing visitor preferences with environmental goals.
Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes
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Vegetation characteristics on Jeju Island's Geomunoreum lava tube system vary significantly with microclimatic conditions. The study found that areas with stable temperature and humidity, such as the lower pit (plot 3) and outer flattening-out regions (plots 6 and 7), exhibit simpler vegetation structures with high mortality and low growth rates in the former, while the latter shows diverse competing species and high growth rates. Midpoint areas (plots 2 and 4) display transitions in dominant tree species but stable shrub and subtree layers. Higher areas (plots 1 and 5) show frequent changes across all vegetation layers. These patterns differ from other lava pits on the island, highlighting the unique microclimatic influence on vegetation structure and dynamics.
Rila Monastery
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A groundbreaking analysis of the exterior wall paintings at Rila Monastery, Bulgaria—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the last large-scale example of Eastern Orthodox mural art—reveals significant degradation linked to atmospheric exposure. The study identified natural pigments like red ochre and green earth alongside synthetic ones such as ultramarine and vermilion, which remain stable. However, minium (lead-based pigment) has chemically transformed into black plattnerite or white lead carbonate, altering the paintings' appearance. Emerald green pigment also showed partial degradation without major color changes. The research used a multi-technique approach, including ATR-FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, and SEM-EDS, to characterize materials and decay products like gypsum and calcium oxalate. Binders confirmed the use of egg-tempera, with chemical degradation suggested by metal oxalates. Notably, the study highlights the introduction of emerald green pigment and synthetic ultramarine, diverging from traditional Byzantine practices.
Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island
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Cladosiphon okamuranus, a prime source of fucoidan among brown algae, exhibits consistent structural characteristics for its cell wall polysaccharide across different geographical locations within Okinawa Prefecture during peak harvesting times. A study analyzing samples from eight sites in the Ryukyu archipelago revealed that while the hot water fraction (HW) and hemicellulose-I fraction (HC-I) remained predominant, with HW accounting for 60–70% and HC-I for 15–20%, the chemical composition of fucoidan within HW showed minimal variation. Fucoidan consistently maintained a molar ratio of fucose (Fuc), glucuronic acid (GlcA), and sulfate (SO3−) at approximately 1.0:0.5:0.7–1.0, indicating structural uniformity across locations. However, HC-I displayed significant variability in sugar composition, particularly in samples from Bise, the northern part of Okinawa Island, which contained notably higher amounts of glucose (Glc), galactose (Gal), mannose (Man), and xylose (Xyl), along with thicker lateral branches compared to other regions.
Historic Cairo
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A detailed analysis of the Fatima Khatun Mausoleum in Historic Cairo reveals critical insights into the degradation of its 13th-century construction materials, particularly focusing on mortar and brick compositions. The study employed advanced experimental techniques to characterize these materials, identifying key factors contributing to their deterioration. Findings highlight the importance of understanding historical material properties for effective conservation strategies. This research provides a foundation for preserving similar structures, offering actionable data for restoring Historic Cairo's architectural heritage.
Qhapaq Ñan, Andean Road System
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Culebrillas Lagoon, a glacio-lacustrine landscape in Ecuador's southern Andes, harbors significant geoheritage and geotourism potential. This study identifies its fluvio-glacial morphologies as key elements that, when combined with cultural heritage—such as Inca and Cañari traditions, myths, and the Qhapaq Ñan road system—offer a holistic socio-environmental value. The research employs a comprehensive approach to characterize these landscapes, revealing their intrinsic worth for sustainable geotourism development. By integrating geoheritage with local legends and historical vestiges, the study underscores Culebrillas Lagoon's untapped potential as both an ecological treasure and a cultural landmark.
Lower Valley of the Omo
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A recent study evaluated the performance of ten regional climate models (RCMs) from the CORDEX-Africa initiative in simulating climatic conditions across the East African Transboundary Omo Gibe River Basin, Ethiopia. The research found that while RCMs vary significantly in their ability to replicate climatic variables, ensembles and specific models like RACMO22T (EC-EARTH) effectively captured average annual precipitation distribution. CCLM4-8-17 (MPI) and its ensemble performed well in replicating annual precipitation magnitudes despite discrepancies. All models accurately simulated seasonal precipitation patterns, with some models like RCA4 (CNRM) and REMO2009 (MPI) showing superior performance. The study also highlighted that interannual and seasonal rainfall variations were more pronounced than temperature variations, with a strong correlation between actual and simulated precipitation at multiple monitoring sites. Notably, the RCA4 (MIROC5) model was effective in reproducing extreme precipitation events, though all models tended to overestimate their return periods. The research underscores the importance of selecting reliable RCMs and using ensemble means of top-performing models, following systematic bias adjustment, for specific applications.
Coiba National Park and its Special Zone of Marine Protection
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A 20-year analysis of satellite data reveals significant oceanographic variability near Coiba Island and the Pacific Panama coast, with distinct seasonal patterns in sea surface temperature (SST) and chlorophyll-a (Chl-a). During the dry season, the Panama wind jet induces SST cooling and upwelling-driven Chl-a peaks, particularly in February/March. However, the Gulf of Chiriqui exhibits unique warming trends, with SSTs 1°C warmer than east of Coiba Island and occasional extreme Chl-a blooms (up to 32 mg/m³) in May 2007 and June 2008, whose causes remain unexplained. The study also highlights the impact of the 2015-2016 El Niño event, which elevated SSTs by up to +2°C for 12 months in the Gulf of Chiriqui. This research provides a critical baseline for understanding climatological conditions and interannual variability in this understudied marine region.
Qinghai Hoh Xil
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A significant shift in the water storage variation patterns of Kusai Lake (KL) on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, triggered by the 2011 outburst of Zhuonai Lake (ZL), has been identified for the first time. The study revealed that while pre-outburst LWS variations were dominated by 1-year and 3.5-year cycles without a semi-annual signal, post-outburst dynamics showed a strong semi-annual oscillation and amplified annual fluctuations. This change was directly linked to altered recharge patterns caused by the ZL outburst, rather than precipitation, evaporation, or glacier changes. The research utilized multisource remote sensing data to construct high-resolution time series (1990–2022) for lake level, area, and water storage, achieving accuracies validated against DAHITI standards. This method offers a novel approach for monitoring short-period variabilities in Tibetan lakes lacking hydrological data, providing critical insights into the downstream impacts of glacial lake outburst events.
Monasteries of Daphni, Hosios Loukas and Nea Moni of Chios
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A comprehensive analysis of the Monastery of Hosios Loukas reveals its architectural significance as a masterpiece of Byzantine art and engineering. Charalambos Bouras' monograph, published in 2018, delves into the monastery's design, construction techniques, and historical context, providing detailed insights through 85 figures and 22 plates. The study highlights the interplay between religious symbolism and structural innovation, particularly in the church's dome and narthex, which exemplify Byzantine architectural prowess. Bouras' work, reviewed in the journal 'Δελτίον Της Χριστιανικής Αρχαιολογικής Εταιρείας,' underscores the monastery's enduring legacy as a testament to medieval craftsmanship and cultural heritage.
Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks
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Researchers have uncovered three new species and one variety of Habenaria orchids endemic to Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, Brazil, doubling the known diversity of the genus in the region. Among these discoveries is Habenaria cultellifolia, rediscovered after 127 years with only a single extant population. Molecular phylogenetic analyses using nuclear and plastid markers confirmed the novelty of H. minuticalcar, H. proiteana, and H. lavrensis var. xanthodactyla, which were described, illustrated, and tentatively assessed as threatened. The study also identified four locally endemic taxa, highlighting the region's significant biodiversity. With some areas yet to be explored, further taxonomic novelties are anticipated, underscoring the importance of continued floristic sampling in this UNESCO-listed site.
Nyungwe National Park
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A comprehensive checklist of ant species from Nyungwe National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in South-Western Rwanda, reveals remarkable biodiversity with 74 identified species, including nine genera and 43 species recorded for the first time in Rwanda. The study, conducted across seven sites using diverse sampling methods such as pitfall traps, arboreal traps, baiting, and hand searching, highlights Myrmicinae as the most diverse subfamily. Notably, 13 potential undescribed ant species were also identified, underscoring the park's ecological significance. High species richness was observed in secondary forest sites like Karamba (53 species) and Pindura (33 species), suggesting these areas may serve as critical habitats for ant diversity. The findings advocate for further intensive sampling across Rwanda to fully understand its tropical rainforest ant fauna.
Selous Game Reserve
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A recent study challenges the assumption that cheetahs persist in Tanzania's Selous–Nyerere ecosystem. Despite its significance as potential cheetah habitat, surveys conducted between 2020 and 2022—using sign-based (spoor) methods and camera traps across Selous Game Reserve and Nyerere National Park—yielded no evidence of current cheetah presence. Additionally, interviews with tourism operators and park management provided no reports of recent sightings. The findings suggest that the ecosystem should not be considered part of the contemporary cheetah range, raising questions about whether it ever hosted a resident population or was merely a peripheral area for dispersers from other regions.
Costiera Amalfitana
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Four ancient white wine grape varieties from the Amalfi coast—Fenile, Ginestra, Pepella, and Ripoli—exhibit distinct chemical profiles that can differentiate them and inform winemaking practices. Ripoli grapes are notably rich in quercetin derivatives while low in kaempferol derivatives, whereas Pepella contains equal amounts of both. Fenile and Ginestra show a twofold abundance of quercetins over kaempferols. The study also revealed higher concentrations of (+)-catechin than (–)-epicatechin across all varieties, with B-type procyanidins being more prevalent in Pepella and Ripoli. Additionally, hydroxycinnamic acids were identified, along with flavanols up to decamers in grape seeds, providing insights into their galloylation percentage. This chemical characterization offers a foundation for developing tailored vinification techniques to enhance wine quality while preserving the unique terroir identity of these autochthonous varieties.
Sacred City of Kandy
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A study analyzing rainwater composition at three sites in Kandy, Sri Lanka, revealed that the city center exhibited the highest levels of air pollution, with chloride (Cl−) and sulfate (SO4²⁻) being dominant anions. No acid rain was detected during the 11-month sampling period from February to December 2019. Trace metals followed a consistent sequence across sites: zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), aluminum (Al), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), and lead (Pb). Significant correlations were observed between conductivity, salinity, and total dissolved solids (TDS) in all sites, while specific metal correlations varied by location. The research highlights the need for continuous rainwater monitoring to assess air pollution in Sri Lanka.
Caves of Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst
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Chemical denudation in the Drienovecká jaskyňa Cave basin (Slovak Karst) exhibits distinct seasonal dynamics, with peak rates observed during spring months. The study, spanning three hydrological years, revealed an average denudation rate of 21.06 mg Ca²⁺ per unit time, influenced by factors such as CO₂ partial pressure, water temperature, and snowmelt. Hydrochemical analyses confirmed the cave spring's calcium-magnesium-bicarbonate water type, characterized by oversaturation with respect to calcite. These findings highlight the interplay between climatic conditions, geological composition, and biological activity in shaping karst landscape evolution.
Sun Temple, Konârak
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Ancient Indian artisans demonstrated remarkable mastery of iron metallurgy, producing artefacts with exceptional characteristics such as super corrosion resistance. A comprehensive review reveals the chemical composition and preparation methods behind these materials, using advanced techniques like X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM). The study highlights the unique properties of iron artefacts from sites like the Sun Temple in Konârak, the Delhi Iron Pillar, and Damascus swords made of wootz steel. By analyzing rust-free structures and ancient manufacturing processes, researchers aim to replicate these outstanding qualities for future metallic monuments, offering insights valuable across materials science, chemistry, and archaeology.
Pont du Gard (Roman Aqueduct)
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Research demonstrates that CO2 injection into carbonate aquifers, such as the Pont du Gard Limestone, significantly alters rock properties due to acid-producing reactions. The study found that HCl solutions cause localized, compact dissolution at the core inlet, affecting hydromechanical properties, while CO2-saturated water leads to widespread chemical reactions along preferential flow pathways, enhancing permeability through wormhole formation. A power-law relationship with a high exponent (up to 24) describes the permeability-porosity variation, and altered cores exhibit reduced mechanical strength and ultrasonic velocities, validated by a Differential Effective Medium approach. These findings highlight the complex chemo-hydro-mechanical effects of CO2 storage in carbonates, crucial for improving predictions and monitoring of storage performance.
Pre-Hispanic City of Chichen-Itza
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Chichén Itzá's economy at the end of the Classic Period (10th–11th centuries) was not solely driven by market exchanges but relied significantly on tribute extraction and centralized redistribution. Archaeological evidence suggests that Chichén Itzá, leveraging its military supremacy, imposed tribute on conquered regions experiencing collapse while forming political-economic alliances to acquire sumptuous goods. These commodities reinforced elite power structures and social relations within the northern Yucatán community. The study challenges the dominant market economy model, proposing instead a system where centralized redistribution and tribute played pivotal roles in sustaining Chichén Itzá's economic dominance.
Old City of Dubrovnik
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Children, despite preferring sustainable tourism scenarios, show a notable fixation on overtourism imagery, particularly overcrowding, according to a cognitive neuroscience study involving 397 participants. The research revealed that while children exhibit increased physiological arousal when exposed to sustainable tourism images—though less than with overtourism—they predominantly express neutral emotions in both contexts. Gender differences emerged, with girls showing lower place attachment in sustainable scenarios. Inner-city residents displayed diminished nature connectedness, and emotions were indirectly linked to pro-environmental behavior. Older children and inner-city residents showed heightened neutrality toward overtourism concerns, while those outside the city exhibited stronger nature connectedness. The study underscores the need for inclusive, child-empowered approaches to sustainable tourism development.
Mount Emei Scenic Area, including Leshan Giant Buddha Scenic Area
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Researchers have discovered that two newly identified cyanobacteria, Elainella chongqingensis and Pegethrix sichuanica, produce chlorophyll f (Chl f) under far-red light (FRL), marking the first report of this phenomenon in the family Oculatellaceae. These strains were isolated from Chongqing city and Mount Emei Scenic Area, respectively, and classified using morphological analysis and phylogenetic studies. Under white light, both produce Chl a, but FRL induces additional synthesis of Chl f, with P. sichuanica exhibiting nearly half the typical Chl f content in cyanobacteria. The study also observed red-shifted phycobiliproteins under FRL conditions, suggesting potential adaptations for low-light environments. This finding expands the diversity of Chl f-producing cyanobacteria and offers insights into its role in photosynthetic systems.
Moravian Church Settlements
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The Moravian Church Settlements, particularly Christiansfeld, have significantly influenced Danish architectural styles through their unique building traditions. This influence, previously overlooked by architectural research, was transmitted to broader Danish land-building practices between 1915 and 1935 via the 'Landsforeningen for Bedre Byggeskik'. The study reveals that the harmonious blend of South German Baroque, Dutch/Frisian Rococo, and French/Danish Classicism found in these settlements was later adopted as quintessentially 'Danish' architectural elements. Architectural analysis, focusing on details like roof shapes, masonry, windows, doors, and ironwork, demonstrates that this stylistic mix—often perceived as rooted in Danish tradition—originates from the skilled Moravian craftsmen who settled in Christiansfeld after 1773. The research underscores the importance of recognizing immaterial cultural heritage, highlighting how visible architectural features often conceal deeper historical narratives.
Monumental Earthworks of Poverty Point
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New radiocarbon dating and Bayesian modeling challenge the notion of a unified Poverty Point culture, revealing that the monumental earthworks at Poverty Point likely developed through rapid, punctuated events around 3300 to 3200 cal BP. Contrary to previous interpretations suggesting gradual political or evolutionary processes spanning hundreds of years, this study finds no temporal coherence among so-called Poverty Point sites. Poverty Point itself appears to have been occupied for a relatively short period and is younger than many other sites thought to be contemporary. The research employs rigorous chronological hygiene and Bayesian analyses to refine the understanding of site occupation timelines in the lower Mississippi Valley.
Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
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New archaeological and geophysical evidence challenges long-held assumptions about the architecture of Mississippian-era mounds, revealing that so-called conical mounds were actually flat-topped circular platforms. Historical accounts suggest these structures were numerous across the Greater Cahokia region, often topped by or associated with circular sweat lodges and rotundas, accompanied by rectangular structures and earthen causeways. Geophysical surveys at Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site detected the foundation of a rebuilt circular structure on Monks Mound, aligned with the Rattlesnake Causeway, as well as an actual conical Woodland mound on nearby river bluffs. Additional circular mounds and mound-summit architecture were confirmed at other sites in the region, including Pfeffer and Emerald, providing a more nuanced understanding of Mississippian ceremonial and social landscapes.
Medina of Tunis
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A circularity-based decision-making framework for the integrated conservation of built heritage, applied to the Medina of Tunis, reveals that knowledge and data exchange are the most significant factors driving sustainable urban regeneration. This approach shifts from traditional 'governing for culture' to a more dynamic 'governing through culture,' emphasizing heritage-led regeneration through effective redistribution of cultural activities in historic city centers. The study employs the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) to evaluate cross-matching relationships between circular governance indicators, comparing case-specific and general data to define an integrated conservation model.
Archaeological Site of Ani
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Ani, the medieval Armenian capital known as the 'City of 1,001 Churches,' stands as a testament to a civilization lost due to earthquakes and conflict. Its ruins, abandoned by the 17th century, have been the focus of international conservation efforts since its inclusion on the World Monuments Watch in 1996. This study highlights Ani's preservation as a model for global collaboration, integrating experts from Türkiye, Armenia, Iran, Russia, and the United States to address regional coordination, international cooperation, and cultural exchange. The decades-long project emphasizes advocacy and conservation strategies that protect this significant built heritage while fostering cross-border dialogue.
Western Tien-Shan
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2023 —
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A groundbreaking syntaxonomic classification of alpine grasslands in the western Tian Shan Mountains (Kyrgyzstan) identifies 13 ecologically distinct clusters, including 12 associations and one rankless unit. This study, the first of its kind in this region, reveals three new alliances that bridge vegetation influenced by Irano-Turanian climate with alpine grassland ecosystems. Key climatic factors such as temperature seasonality, diurnal temperature range, and annual precipitation, along with soil properties like pH and nitrogen availability, were found to shape species composition. The research employed hierarchical Ward’s clustering and NMDS analysis on 251 relevés sampled between 2015-2022, advancing understanding of alpine grassland biodiversity in Middle Asia while highlighting the need for further comparative studies with regions like Altai and Karakorum-Himalayan ranges.
Western Caucasus
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2023 —
WHED96F3723F1
A new classification system for oriental beech (Fagus orientalis) forests in the Western Caucasus has been established, identifying distinct alliances and associations based on species composition and environmental conditions. The study, using quantitative analysis of 200 relevés and comparative syntaxonomic analysis, categorized these forests into two primary alliances: Fagion orientalis for floristically poor beech forests on acidic bedrocks, and Thlaspio macrophylli–Fagion orientalis for species-rich beech forests on calcareous bedrocks in ultra-humid climates. Additionally, the alliance Acero heldreichii–Fagion orientalis was introduced to describe subalpine beech forests with a high presence of endemic Caucasian tall-forb plants. This classification provides a detailed framework for understanding the biodiversity and ecological dynamics of these unique ecosystems.
Hegra Archaeological Site (al-Hijr / Madā ͐ in Ṣāliḥ)
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2023 —
WHECC42AA0743
A novel approach using explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) and three-dimensional geometric analysis successfully maps cavernous weathering on rock slopes with high accuracy, offering a faster and more efficient alternative to manual segmentation. The method, applied to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hegra in Saudi Arabia, achieved up to 85% accuracy in identifying weathered areas while minimizing false positives. This low-cost, reproducible technique leverages UAV photogrammetric point clouds to assess rockfall hazards, providing a reliable tool for preliminary evaluations and future monitoring of rock-carved slopes.
Putorana Plateau
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2023 —
WHE05E45D0FBD
A distinct sediment layer from the Lomonosov Ridge in the central Arctic Ocean, dating to the Marine Isotope Stage (MIS) 4-3 transition, marks a significant deglaciation event during the Middle Weichselian period. This 48 cm thick, dark grey silty clay layer contains elevated concentrations of ice-rafted debris (IRD), indicating a shift in sedimentation patterns likely linked to meltwater release from a large ice-dammed lake in northern Siberia. The study employed quantitative clay mineralogy analysis combined with Nd, Pb, and Sr isotope measurements to trace the provenance of sediments, revealing isotopic signatures consistent with Siberian basaltic rocks, such as those found on the Putorana Plateau. These findings suggest that weathering products from these rocks contributed to the sediment layer, providing new insights into Arctic deglaciation dynamics and paleoclimate interactions.
Anjar
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2023 —
WHEB216C695C1
Research at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Anjar reveals that smectite, palygorskite, and sepiolite clay minerals play a crucial role in preserving fullerene molecules and iridium (Ir) in Cretaceous–Palaeogene intertrappean beds. The study, using powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, identifies these Mg-rich clays as nanocrystalline, with smectite showing a strong correlation to fullerene occurrence. This finding suggests that specific clay mineral compositions may influence the preservation of biomarkers and Ir in sedimentary layers, providing insights into geological processes at Anjar.
Old Town of Corfu
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2023 —
WHE4E601711B1
Historic settlements like the Old Town of Corfu face significant vulnerability to climate change due to their unique structural and material characteristics. This study identifies key threats, including extreme weather events, and assesses the town's susceptibility using IPCC methodology. The research reveals that factors such as dense urban geometry, material degradation in historic buildings, outdated infrastructure, and challenges related to tourism and traffic congestion exacerbate climate risks. By analyzing climate data specific to Corfu, the study provides a comprehensive set of adaptation proposals tailored to mitigate these vulnerabilities, offering valuable insights for preserving similar World Heritage Sites.
Ironbridge Gorge
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2023 —
WHED931DEC7FC
Museums, particularly industrial ones, face a critical opportunity to address climate change by reflecting on their role in climate injustice and contributing to sustainable decarbonization. A study focusing on Ironbridge Gorge (UK) and Heartlands (Cornwall, UK) reveals that while these institutions often celebrate human-induced climate alteration without critique, they can leverage the climate crisis as a catalyst for self-reflection and action. Drawing parallels with postcolonial theory, the research argues that museums must align their ambitions towards decolonization with efforts toward decarbonization to meaningfully engage with the climate challenge.
