Virgin Komi Forests
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A 600-year dendrochronological reconstruction reveals that climate, not human activity, primarily drove forest fire cycles in the Virgin Komi Forests of Russia. The study found that while village establishment increased local fire occurrence, it did not significantly alter the landscape-level fire cycle (FC), which was strongly linked to drought conditions. The FC varied from 153 years (1960–2010) to a historic low of 32 years (1620–1730). This suggests that human influence on fire regimes in this boreal region has been minimal, unlike other parts of the European boreal zone. The research combines fire history data with climate proxies and village establishment records to provide insights into natural fire dynamics.
Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek
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Alaska's national park road corridors face increasing landslide risks due to rising temperatures and heavy precipitation, threatening public safety and infrastructure. Research indicates that mean annual air temperatures (MAATs) above freezing and summer precipitation significantly elevate landslide risk in these permafrost-rich regions. Analyzing historical climate data (1981–2020) from ERA5 reanalysis, the study found significant warming trends (0.3–0.6 °C per decade) across Gates of the Arctic, Denali, and Wrangell-St. Elias national parks. Projections for mid-century (2021–2060) and late-century (2061–2100) suggest heightened risk on key roads like Denali Park Road and McCarthy Road due to increased MAATs and summer precipitation, with all three parks' road corridors at elevated risk by the end of the century. These findings underscore the urgent need for climate-adaptive infrastructure planning in Alaska's national parks.
Gunung Mulu National Park
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A two-decade study of stalagmites from Gunung Mulu National Park, Borneo, has uncovered critical insights into tropical climate dynamics spanning 500,000 years. These cave formations reveal complex patterns of rainfall and temperature variability, offering a detailed record of past climatic shifts in Southeast Asia. The research employs isotopic analysis to reconstruct environmental conditions, providing a high-resolution timeline that links regional climate behavior to global changes. This work enhances our understanding of tropical climate sensitivity and its response to long-term geological and atmospheric influences.
Great Zimbabwe National Monument
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A groundbreaking discovery at Great Zimbabwe reveals that dhaka pits, closed depressions used for water storage and harvesting, were integral to the ancient urban society's climate-smart water management system. These pits, possibly dating back to the mid-second millennium CE, formed part of a landscape-scale strategy that leveraged catchment hydrology and groundwater to secure water for subsistence, farming, and rituals. The study integrates soil profiles, high-resolution topographic data, historical sources, and socioecological memory to reconstruct this sophisticated system, emphasizing its long-term significance in addressing water security challenges in sub-Saharan Africa's water-scarce regions.
Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley
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Forest succession in the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Iberian Pyrenees, has been significantly influenced by both climatic and anthropogenic factors over the last 500 years. The study reveals that dominant tree taxa such as Quercus, Betula, and Pinus exhibit strong relationships with summer temperature, drought, and autumn precipitation, showing immediate and delayed responses to these climatic drivers. A notable closed path in regional succession was identified, transitioning from pine-dominated forests due to human-induced clearing (16th–18th centuries) to natural forest recovery (18th–20th centuries), driven by reduced human pressure and rising temperatures. This statistical analysis provides critical insights for predicting future successional trends under changing climates, highlighting the complexity of ecological relationships and the need to address response lags in future research.
The Climats, terroirs of Burgundy
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Burgundy's 'climats'—distinct vineyard parcels—have emerged as a globally recognized cultural landscape, reflecting a strategic heritagisation process that elevates Burgundy wines and vineyards in the competitive global market. This recognition, achieved in 2015, has transformed the region's economic value by shifting away from traditional terroir narratives toward a new visual discourse centered on climats. The study analyzes how local elites, producers, and cultural mediators craft these values through storytelling, highlighting paradoxes of globalization such as tension between artisanal labor, privileged consumption, and corporate ownership. By examining strategies deployed in vineyards and hospitality, the research illustrates the dialectics of value creation within capitalism, offering insights into how heritage narratives shape economic and cultural landscapes.
Cliff of Bandiagara (Land of the Dogons)
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Contemporary textiles from the Sahel region, including examples from Mali and Niger, reflect centuries-old weaving techniques, designs, and materials dating back to the 11th–15th centuries. The exhibition 'Cloth is Money: Textiles from the Sahel' at Fitchburg Art Museum (FAM) highlighted this continuity by showcasing archaeological textile fragments from the Bandiagara escarpment in Mali alongside modern textiles. Curated by Jean Borgatti, the exhibit emphasized the enduring cultural significance of woven cloth in West Africa, tracing its origins to the trans-Saharan trade era that shaped medieval African empires like Ghana, Mali, and Songhai. The display also addressed provenance, acknowledging the historical journeys of these artifacts from their regions of origin to museum collections.
Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island
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A volcanic eruption in the Ogasawara Islands in August 2021 led to unprecedented pumice rafting, with significant ecological impacts observed along the coasts of Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, northern Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island. The study documents early evidence of ecosystem changes, including disruptions to coral reefs, mangrove forests, and estuaries, as well as obstacles to fishing and maritime activities. Pumice stranding caused short- and long-term alterations in coastal ecosystems, with potential implications for similar regions like Kyushu, Shikoku, and Honshu Islands where pumice later washed ashore. The research highlights the need for further investigation into the broader ecological consequences of such events.
Old Town of Corfu
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Corfu's coastal environments, shaped by millennia of human activity, reveal a dynamic interplay between marine ecosystems and cultural heritage. This study demonstrates how seascapes—both as ecological systems and cultural constructs—have influenced economic and social relations, resource exploitation, and landscape use from ancient times to the present. By integrating archaeological remains, ethnographic evidence, and archival materials through a diachronic lens, researchers uncovered patterns of habitation, fishing traditions, and maritime practices that define Corfu's strategic position in the Ionian and Adriatic Seas. The findings highlight the island's diverse coastal ecosystems—including wetlands, lagoons, estuaries, and salt flats—as vital components of its cultural and economic heritage. A key contribution is the development of the Community Map of Southern Corfu, which, through collaboration with local communities, aims to enhance the value of these environments while fostering sustainable development. This ecomuseum approach emphasizes collective memory, active community participation, and regenerative practices, offering a model for balancing conservation with economic diversification in fishing communities.
Isole Eolie (Aeolian Islands)
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Low-lying coastal tracts in the eastern and northeastern sectors of Lipari, Italy—a UNESCO-listed Aeolian Island—face significant threats from coastal erosion and flooding, exacerbated by subsidence-induced local sea level rise. These narrow stretches are increasingly vulnerable to permanent inundation and beach loss, posing risks to the island's tourism-dependent economy. A multidisciplinary study employing remote sensing (aerophotogrammetry, UAV surveys, satellite data), offshore geophysical surveys (high-resolution multibeam bathymetry), and field observations reveals complex interactions between natural and anthropogenic factors in the long- and mid-term evolution of these coastal areas. The findings underscore the need for proactive management strategies to mitigate natural risks and adapt to future climate change impacts.
Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont: Langhe-Roero and Monferrato
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Terraced vineyard landscapes, while historically significant and culturally rich, face threats from abandonment and changing land use practices. A study on the UNESCO-listed Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont (Italy) reveals a strong alignment between expert-identified historical landscape elements—such as traditional stone-column-supported pergolas—and the perceptions of winegrowers, who overwhelmingly favor their conservation. The research employs an innovative integrated approach combining expert-based assessments with surveys of 49 winegrowers to analyze coevolutionary dynamics between terraced landscapes and rural communities. Findings indicate that while some traditional practices persist, modern techniques like espaliers and alternative land uses (e.g., olive groves) are emerging. This dual-methodology approach underscores the resilience and adaptive capacity of these landscapes, offering a replicable model for dynamic conservation strategies in similar contexts.
The Emergence of Modern Human Behaviour: The Pleistocene Occupation Sites of South Africa
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A significant shift in human behavior and environmental adaptation occurred at Klein Kliphuis rock shelter, South Africa, during the transition from Marine Isotope Stage (MIS) 4 to MIS 3, approximately 65–55,000 years ago. The study reveals that as soil moisture declined, site occupation intensity decreased, marked by a reduction in diverse fuelwood species and an increase in shrubs and small flowering plants used for 'fast fires.' This suggests a behavioral change towards shorter visits and greater forager mobility, possibly linked to early MIS 3 conditions. Wood charcoals also indicate that silcrete, the dominant lithology in tool production during the Howiesons Poort period, was less prevalent post-transition, implying changes in lithic technology. The research integrates paleoenvironmental data with archaeological evidence to uncover coherent shifts in human adaptation strategies during this critical period.
University of Coimbra – Alta and Sofia
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In 1537, the relocation of the University of Lisbon to Coimbra marked a pivotal moment for the city, catalyzing profound urban, demographic, social, economic, and cultural transformations. This study reveals that Coimbra's renaissance began under King D. Manuel and intensified post-1537, with significant architectural developments. Notable changes included the opening of Rua da Sofia in 1538, followed by the construction of distinguished houses on its western side. Eastern expansion saw the rise of university colleges from the 1540s onward, including the Colégio de Jesus (1547), Colégio de S. Jerónimo (1565), and Colégio das Artes (1568). The research approach combines historical analysis with urban development studies to elucidate Coimbra's transformation during this period.
Saryarka – Steppe and Lakes of Northern Kazakhstan
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A comprehensive collection of archaeological finds from the Bozok II settlement, located in Northern Saryarka, reveals significant insights into the cultural and historical dynamics of the region during the Bronze Age. The study, involving a multidisciplinary team of scholars from Kazakhstan, Russia, Kyrgyzstan, China, the U.S., Poland, Lithuania, Uzbekistan, and the UK, highlights the importance of Bozok II as a key settlement in the Saryarka landscape. The research approach integrated extensive fieldwork, artifact analysis, and historical documentation, providing a detailed account of material culture, social organization, and environmental interactions. This collection contributes to understanding the complex history and cultural heritage of Northern Kazakhstan, offering valuable data for UNESCO World Heritage Site management and preservation efforts.
Central Sector of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long - Hanoi
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Researchers have identified collineation measurement as a method used by Vietnamese designers to harmonize the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long with its surrounding landscape, particularly Tản Viên Mountain. This discovery reveals that the citadel's spatial orientation and structure were deliberately aligned with natural features, integrating Tản Viên Mountain and its extensions into the city's design. The study employed a mixed-method approach, combining historical archives, fieldwork, and simulation models to analyze spatial orientation perspectives statistically. Findings indicate that collineation measurement played a key role in establishing the citadel's position, shaping human settlements, and developing urban space, with significant buildings closely tied to the surrounding landscape within 50 km.
Jesuit Missions of the Guaranis: San Ignacio Mini, Santa Ana, Nuestra Señora de Loreto and Santa Maria Mayor (Argentina), Ruins of Sao Miguel das Missoes (Brazil)
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A groundbreaking analysis reveals how Guaraní kinship structures shaped colonial Paraguayan society, challenging traditional narratives of Spanish-Guarani relations. Shawn Michael Austin's work demonstrates that ethnic soldiering emerged with early Spanish expeditions into the Chaco region, predating Jesuit-led efforts to combat Indian slavery. By leveraging 350 underutilized judicial records and archival documents—including rare testimonies from the Guaraní—Austin illustrates how the term 'mborayhu' (loving) encapsulated reciprocal benefits between Native peoples and their encomenderos, fostering a sense of community. The study also highlights the significant role of African slaves in colonial society, with Africans comprising 15% of Asunción’s population by 1682, though it notes gaps in church records that could have further illuminated interethnic ties.
Rock-Art Sites of Tadrart Acacus
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A significant gap of tens of thousands of years separates the last Pleistocene occupation and the first Early Holocene colonisation in the Tadrart Acacus region, marking a true reoccupation of long-uninhabited hyperarid zones. The study identifies the first confirmed human presence in this area around 11,600 calBP, attributed to small, specialised hunter-gatherer groups with northern provenance. These Early Acacus groups exploited Barbary sheep and avoided intensive water-based food resources, contrasting with contemporary southern Saharan practices. The research combines lithic assemblage analysis, site organisation studies, and environmental data to reconstruct this colonisation event, highlighting the role of reactivated hydrographic systems in facilitating human movement during periods of environmental amelioration.
Bauhaus and its Sites in Weimar, Dessau and Bernau
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A study of the Bauhaus Wall-Painting Workshop's collaboration with architect Walter Gropius between 1922 and 1926 reveals a shift from dynamic, transformative color use to restrained, functional accentuation in architecture. Initially, painters like Oskar Schlemmer envisioned bold, colorful wall paintings that threatened to dematerialize architectural form, leading to conflicts with Gropius. Over time, the workshop's approach evolved under Hinnerk Scheper's leadership, prioritizing color as a subordinate element that subtly enhanced buildings without compromising their structural integrity. This transition highlights the tension between artistic expression and architectural functionality, culminating in a collaborative model where color yielded to the demands of form.
Agricultural Landscape of Southern Öland
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A two-way detrimental relationship exists between climate change and agricultural practices, with emissions from agriculture exacerbating global warming while climate change stresses farming systems. This study advances understanding of how to implement adaptive measures in Öland's agriculture, addressing 'what,' 'where,' and 'how' while considering carrying capacity constraints and maladaptation risks. Using a GIS-based framework, researchers identified nutrient surplus and discharge hotspots—critical areas for intervention. In-depth interviews and surveys explored perceptions on resource management and adaptation strategies, refining an analytical model to guide planners, advisors, and farmers. The findings aim to develop robust, sustainable, and climate-smart interventions to mitigate negative climate impacts in agricultural landscapes.
Migratory Bird Sanctuaries along the Coast of Yellow Sea-Bohai Gulf of China
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A significant portion of waterbird species along the Yellow Sea and Bohai Gulf coasts, part of the East Asian–Australasian Flyway, show a strong dependence on natural wetlands. The study identified 27 out of 80 species—particularly shorebirds and herons—as highly reliant on these ecosystems, with threatened species exhibiting even greater dependency. Researchers used a bootstrapping procedure combined with citizen science data to quantify this relationship, revealing that while only nine of the dependent species are nationally protected, many face heightened extinction risks due to wetland loss. This highlights an urgent need for targeted conservation efforts to mitigate population declines in these critical habitats.
Coastal and Marine Ecosystems of the Bijagós Archipelago – Omatí Minhô
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A groundbreaking mapping approach reveals that fiddler crabs occupy about 22% of intertidal flats in the Bijagós Archipelago, significantly influencing shorebird and benthic invertebrate communities. Using Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 imagery combined with a digital elevation model (DEM) and machine learning techniques, researchers achieved an 82% classification accuracy to distinguish key habitat types, including rocks, shell beds, macroalgae, bare sediments, and fiddler crab areas. The study identified sandy sediments as the dominant cover (59%) in this critical non-breeding site for migratory shorebirds in the East Atlantic Flyway. Elevation, moisture indexes, and radar data were the most influential predictors, demonstrating the power of remote sensing to map complex intertidal ecosystems. This work bridges a knowledge gap in monitoring biodiversity hotspots and offers vital insights for conservation efforts.
Mana Pools National Park, Sapi and Chewore Safari Areas
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A shift from cotton farming to livestock production in Zimbabwe's Mid Zambezi Valley, driven by declining cotton profitability, has led to significant land cover changes and wildlife population declines. Research combining panel survey data, land cover analysis, and secondary data revealed that open vegetation expanded from 10% to 20% between 2007 and 2020, coinciding with a drastic reduction in cotton farming (from 1.79 ± 2.05 ha per farm to 0.72 ± 0.90 ha) and a surge in livestock numbers. While wildlife populations have declined, this cannot be solely attributed to land cover changes; however, increasing human-wildlife conflicts pose a threat to long-term coexistence. The study suggests that commodity crops can present conservation opportunities if they support a 'living income' for local communities.
Volcanoes and Forests of Mount Pelée and the Pitons of Northern Martinique
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A comprehensive system for volcano geoheritage communication is proposed, integrating indigenous knowledge with modern tools to enhance understanding and dissemination of volcanic systems. This dual-web approach—one for broad volcanology education and another for specific volcanoes—aims to bridge gaps between scientists, officials, the public, and students. By leveraging social media, films, videos, and websites, the system seeks to improve real-time information exchange and preparedness, offering a template for 21st-century geoheritage management. The study builds on historical legends and scientific literature to create an accessible, dynamic platform that benefits diverse stakeholders.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and Hin Nam No National Park
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Local communities near Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park (PN-KBNP) exhibit strong positive attitudes toward biodiversity conservation and are willing to contribute financially, with an average household willing to pay 297,000 VND annually. This willingness is influenced by factors such as payment levels, age, residency duration, and education. While villagers recognize the ecological value of PN-KBNP due to daily interactions with the park, their awareness of management rules remains low. The study suggests that empowering communities in conservation planning, monitoring, and implementation—alongside clear land-use rights—could balance development and preservation more effectively.
Wadi Rum Protected Area
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A collaborative project in Wadi Rum, Jordan, has demonstrated the effectiveness of community engagement and advanced geologic assessment techniques in preserving ancient Thamudic inscriptions and petroglyphs. By implementing GIS-based Rock Art Stability Index (RASI) analyses, researchers have created a baseline database to assess rock art deterioration, addressing challenges posed by increased tourism, human interaction, and climate change. This approach not only aids site management but also provides critical insights into polygenetic deterioration processes, ensuring the long-term protection of Wadi Rum's irreplaceable cultural heritage.
Nyungwe National Park
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A tourism revenue-sharing program in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, aimed at reducing poverty and improving conservation outcomes, has shown limited success. Despite doubling the share from 5% to 10% of park gate fees since 2005, the study found that community well-being has not significantly improved. Researchers used questionnaires, spatial analyses, and regression models to assess illegal resource use, socio-economic status, and community perceptions in 24 sectors around the park. The findings suggest that the program should prioritize areas with greater need and re-evaluate its interventions to better achieve poverty reduction and conservation goals.
Historic City of Yazd
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Qajar-era historic houses across Iran, including those in Tabriz, Isfahan, Yazd, and Kashan, exhibit harmonized architectural characteristics that blend foreign influences with local culture and climate. Key features include the use of columns in main façades, emphasis on symmetry in entrances, and the integration of new ornamental patterns with ancient elements. A comparative study of these houses reveals a consistent architectural approach that adapted external cultural influences to reinforce local identity. The research employs qualitative methods, analyzing reliable historical sources and firsthand materials to highlight this period's innovative yet culturally rooted design principles.
Centennial Hall in Wrocław
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A multi-technique approach using non-destructive and portable techniques (NDPT) has proven effective for assessing the conservation state of historic concrete structures, as demonstrated by a study on Wrocław’s Centennial Hall. The research found that methods like ultrasonic pulse velocity, rebound tests, sponge test, Evanescent Field Dielectrometry (EFD), and colorimetric measurements yielded repeatable results when applied by different teams under similar protocols. These techniques allowed for the evaluation of concrete hardness, compactness, surface permeability, water and salt content, and color changes without invasive inspections. The study highlights the potential of this approach to inform conservation decisions for historic concrete buildings, offering a robust framework for monitoring their condition amid climate change and urban impacts.
West Lake Cultural Landscape of Hangzhou
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A comparative analysis of perspectives on the West Lake Cultural Landscape of Hangzhou reveals significant discrepancies between international experts and local stakeholders, including Chinese heritage professionals, residents, and tourists. International experts often overlooked the nuanced cultural values articulated by Chinese authorities due to differences in historical, philosophical, and heritage value systems. Meanwhile, tourists and locals linked traditional and contemporary Chinese cultural values to personal emotions and experiences, enriching the discourse on social heritage value. This study underscores the importance of integrating diverse stakeholder knowledge in UNESCO World Heritage nomination processes to ensure comprehensive and culturally sensitive evaluations.
Etruscan Necropolises of Cerveteri and Tarquinia
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Correlative Probe to Electron Microscopy (CPEM) emerges as a powerful tool for analyzing nanostructured calcium carbonate, or moonmilk, from the Etruscan Necropolises of Cerveteri and Tarquinia. This study demonstrates that CPEM, combining Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Scanning Probe Microscopy (SPM), simplifies the analysis of moonmilk nano-fibers while reducing risks of artefacts or contamination compared to standalone AFM measurements. The innovative AFM-in-SEM setup enhances sample characterization by providing comprehensive data without compromising resolution or integrity, showcasing its potential for advanced material studies in archaeological contexts.
The Palaces of King Ludwig II of Bavaria: Neuschwanstein, Linderhof, Schachen and Herrenchiemsee
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A critical analysis of Linderhof Palace's indoor climate reveals that current conservation guidelines fall short in predicting damage to its neo-baroque furnishings, which are composed of diverse composite materials. The study found that while these guidelines assess risks based on temperature and humidity, they often overlook specific factors such as fluctuation amplitude, duration, or the unique behavior of damaged or undamaged materials. A 20-year condition report comparison showed that microclimates within the palace, particularly those exposed to external conditions, accelerated damage like flaking in gilded ornaments and painted surfaces. This highlights the need for tailored conservation strategies that account for material characteristics, room-specific microclimates, and the long-term effects of environmental deviations.
Migratory Bird Sanctuaries along the Coast of Yellow Sea-Bohai Gulf of China
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Over 80% of the environmentally suitable habitat ranges (EOOm) for eight shorebird species along China's coasts remain unprotected by national nature reserves, revealing significant conservation gaps. This study compared IUCN-defined extents of occurrence (EOOiucn) with MaxEnt species distribution models (EOOm), finding that EOOm were generally smaller and often fell outside protected areas. Notably, some unprotected EOOm overlapped with high human footprint regions, particularly in Bohai Bay and the Jiangsu–Shanghai coastal area. The research used citizen science data and environmental variables to estimate EOOm, highlighting critical areas needing strengthened conservation efforts.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
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Pastoralism and conservation can coexist effectively within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania, as demonstrated by an integrated assessment approach. The study found that sustainable livestock management practices, combined with conservation efforts, can mitigate negative impacts on biodiversity while supporting local livelihoods. Researchers used a multi-disciplinary method, including ecological data analysis, socioeconomic surveys, and participatory assessments, to evaluate the compatibility of pastoralism with conservation goals. This approach provides a model for balancing human activities and environmental protection in protected areas.
New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands
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A comprehensive analysis of the genus Laevilitorina, a marine gastropod found exclusively in the Southern Hemisphere, reveals significant insights into its distribution and diversity. The study, which combines field sampling, published records, and data from global biodiversity databases, identifies 21 species across regions including West Antarctica (8 species), New Zealand's sub-Antarctic islands (4 species), and Australia's south-east shelf (4 species). Notably, it highlights the rare occurrences of L. pygmaea and L. venusta, while also challenging the taxonomic status of L. caliginosa, suggesting it represents multiple divergent lineages rather than a single widespread taxon. This research underscores the need for further molecular and taxonomic studies to better understand the genus's diversity and biogeography.
Jomon Prehistoric Sites in Northern Japan
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A recent mitochondrial genome analysis of two Jomon individuals buried together at the Ikawazu shell-mound site in northern Japan challenges the long-held assumption that their double burial indicated a mother-child relationship. By sequencing IK001's complete mitochondrial genome with 258-fold coverage, researchers found that its mtDNA differed distinctly from that of the adult woman (IK002), whose draft genome had been previously reported. This genetic discrepancy definitively rules out a maternal kinship between them. The study employs target capture sequencing to achieve high-resolution mitochondrial data, providing new insights into Jomon burial practices and social structures. These findings underscore the importance of advanced genomic techniques in revising archaeological interpretations.
Kulangsu, a Historic International Settlement
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A novel approach to evaluating community engagement in heritage management reveals that transparency, bottom-up participation, and alignment with residents' interests significantly influence willingness to engage and support. This study introduces a multivariate evaluation model using online questionnaires and interviews to assess Digital Community Engagement (DCE) at Kulangsu. The findings highlight the importance of multi-disciplinary, value-based methods in enhancing community involvement and sustainability. Such an approach offers a sustainable framework for integrating diverse stakeholder perspectives, ensuring that heritage management processes are both authentic and inclusive.
Pantanal Conservation Area
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In 2020, the Brazilian Pantanal experienced unprecedented fire activity, with burned areas increasing by 200% compared to long-term averages. This surge was driven not only by extreme climate conditions—hotter and drier than historical norms—but also by intensified human activities, particularly on rural properties where 70% of fires occurred. The study, using climatic anomalies, fire recurrence maps, and land-use analysis, revealed that 35% of burned areas in 2020 were first-time events, with 84% occurring in natural vegetation, including forests. Forest fires contributed to 47% of carbon loss, highlighting the dual threat of climate change and human land-use practices. The findings underscore the need for stronger fire prevention strategies and enforcement to protect this critical conservation area.
Dazu Rock Carvings
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A comprehensive analysis of the surface decoration layers of Buddha statues from the Dazu Rock Carvings reveals the use of gypsum in preparation layers and lacquer sap (urushiol) in painted layers, alongside heat-bodied tung oil and benzoin resin. The study also identified mineral pigments such as cinnabar, lead red, orpiment, litharge, and carbon, with a notable gold foil layer on the Thousand Hand Guanyin sample containing 96.70% gold. This research provides critical insights for the preservation of cultural relics in grottoes, utilizing advanced techniques like digital microscopy, energy-dispersive spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and pyrolysis—gas chromatography/mass spectrometry.
Borobudur Temple Compounds
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Borobudur Temple, a super priority tourism destination in Indonesia, has seen significant development supported by green tourism initiatives. Key advancements include improved access infrastructure, community empowerment through the Village Economic Center (Balkondes), and the adoption of electric vehicles to minimize environmental impact. Additionally, digital promotion strategies have been implemented without harming the environment, reducing reliance on printed marketing materials. These efforts highlight a successful integration of sustainable practices in tourism management, offering a model for balancing cultural heritage preservation with modern tourism needs.
Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain
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A proposed regeneration concept for the historic 'Crafts’ street' quarter in Osh, Kyrgyzstan, aims to balance cultural preservation with sustainable urban development within the UNESCO World Heritage site Sulaiman-Too. The study highlights the quarter’s pivotal role in maintaining the city’s heritage and boosting its tourist appeal while ensuring adherence to strict conservation protocols. It provides a framework for integrating traditional craftsmanship into modern urban planning, emphasizing the need for regulated use of cultural resources without compromising their authenticity.
Wadden Sea
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Prospective biology teachers' conceptions of the Wadden Sea, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with significant educational potential, reveal a focus on school contexts and experience-oriented associations. The study, involving 209 participants from Germany, used word association tests to explore their perceptions of terms like 'Wadden Sea,' 'mudflat hiking tour,' 'tides,' 'national park,' and 'UNESCO World Heritage Site.' Findings indicate that while prospective teachers share some associations with secondary school students—particularly those related to experiential learning—they prioritize educational frameworks. This suggests a need for greater integration of the Wadden Sea into university teacher training programs, as highlighted by the study's authors.
Old Town of Galle and its Fortifications
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A conceptual framework for selecting appropriate digital interpretation techniques for UNESCO World Heritage Sites has been developed, addressing the lack of global guidelines. This study, focusing on six Sri Lankan sites, categorizes 24 criteria under five phases—'Prepare', 'Assess', 'Design', 'Implement', and 'Sustain'—to guide digital integration in cultural heritage preservation. The framework was derived from qualitative and quantitative data, including interviews, field observations, literature reviews, and visitor surveys, ensuring context-specific recommendations. It aims to enhance visitor engagement while preserving the integrity of these sites.
Dorset and East Devon Coast
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The Dorset and East Devon Coast has played a pivotal role in shaping global geological thought for over three centuries. This region's rocks and landscapes have been instrumental in advancing key concepts in Earth sciences, including species extinction, evolution, stratigraphic records, sediment origins, and landform development. The site's significance in the 'Development of the History of Science' was a criterion for its World Heritage designation. While the book focuses on historical contributions, it acknowledges ongoing research by geologists, paleontologists, and geomorphologists who continue to re-evaluate pioneering work and contribute new insights.
Fanjingshan
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Implementing the Forest Ecological Benefit Compensation (FEBC) program in Fanjingshan National Nature Reserve, China, has significantly increased land enrollment in the Grain-to-Green Program (GTGP), suggesting a positive Policy–Behavior spillover effect. Analysis of 2015 data revealed that every 100 mu of FEBC land generated an additional 0.47 mu of GTGP land, potentially boosting total GTGP farmland by 8.25% in FNNR and up to 6.93 million mu (0.4623 million ha) nationwide if extrapolated. However, this effect may reverse under future conditions where more land is enrolled in GTGP, indicating a potential trade-off between the two programs. The study highlights the complex interplay between policy incentives and environmental behavior in protected areas.
Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex
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Researchers have uncovered the unique self-supporting masonry construction method used for large-span karbandi vaults, a complex ribbed structure found in Persian architecture. This discovery sheds light on how these vaults, characterized by intersecting arches with harmonic stellar geometry, achieve stability without modern reinforcement. The study analyzed the Haj-Mohammad-Qoli Timche in Tabriz Historic Bazaar using archival data, direct observations, and interviews with master masons, then simulated the construction process using Rhino 6 and Grasshoppers software to create detailed BIM models. Findings also revealed how scale affects the architectural and structural form of karbandi vaults and identified specific connection types based on construction details. This research is significant as it documents a traditionally underexplored technique, offering insights that could inform modern masonry cross-ribbed vaulting.
iSimangaliso Wetland Park – Maputo National Park
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2022 —
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A study reveals that conservation efforts at iSimangaliso Wetland Park (Maputo National Park) and tourism revenue generation disproportionately benefit the park while leaving the adjacent KwaNibela community economically marginalized, leading to significant socio-economic conflicts. The research employed qualitative methods, including in-depth interviews with 50 randomly selected community members and three purposely chosen park officials. Findings indicate that limited access to natural resources and lack of economic opportunities from tourism exacerbate poverty in KwaNibela, fueling resentment against the park. To foster sustainable conservation, the study recommends integrating local communities into decision-making processes and creating livelihood opportunities linked to tourism and conservation, ensuring equitable benefits for both stakeholders.
Niokolo-Koba National Park
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2022 —
WHEF8CF0B6B05
A study on Niokolo-Koba National Park (NKNP) in Senegal reveals that spotted hyenas are the primary cause of livestock predation, accounting for 87% of attacks around the park. The research estimated a hyena population size ranging from 144 to 288 individuals and identified significant seasonal variations, with more livestock losses during the wet season (58%) compared to the dry season (42%). Notably, the West sector surrounding the park experienced the highest conflict levels (49% of attacks), particularly in the districts of Linkering and Medina Gounass. The study utilized calling stations, camera traps, tourist data, and surveys from 31 villages to assess large carnivore distribution, density, and human-wildlife conflicts. These findings underscore the need for targeted mitigation strategies to reduce livestock predation and human-carnivore conflicts.
City of Safranbolu
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2022 —
WHEF5E0AC5074
Safranbolu's urban development reflects a historical tension between tradition and modernity, revealing how spatial neighborhood relations have shaped its economic growth and urban identity over the past century. The study identifies this conflict as a manifestation of political, social, and urban failures to adapt to the needs of a traditional regional center in the early 20th century, contrasting Safranbolu's experience with that of Karabük. By analyzing spatial dynamics, the research highlights how provincial centers struggled to reconcile their historical identities with modernization pressures, offering insights into the broader central-provincial dilemma in Turkey.
The Causses and the Cévennes, Mediterranean agro-pastoral Cultural Landscape
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2022 —
WHE81E632B524
This study reveals that the relationship between social solidarity and territorial identity varies significantly depending on the type of crisis faced by rural communities. By comparing two Mediterranean agro-pastoral landscapes—the Causse Méjan (1980s–2000s) and La Manche (present day)—researchers found that while past crises failed to sustain durable local solidarity, contemporary approaches in La Manche are better at identifying new pillars for resilient rural communities. The analysis highlights how methodological and epistemological shifts in research frameworks influence these outcomes, offering key insights into the geography of social cohesion.
Provins, Town of Medieval Fairs
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2022 —
WHE92BD9FA4A0
A high-resolution carbon-isotope curve from the Poigny borehole, near Provins (Seine-et-Marne), reveals critical insights into the Coniacian–Campanian interval of the Upper Cretaceous Chalk in the Paris Basin. This study identifies 33 significant palynological events and integrates them with carbon isotope events (CIEs) to refine sub-stage boundaries and correlate depositional sequences across NW Europe, including England and Germany. The research demonstrates that sea-level fluctuations were a primary driver of palaeoenvironmental changes during this period, as evidenced by the peridinioid/gonyaulacoid (P/G) dinocyst ratio and clay mineralogy analysis. This approach provides a robust framework for chemostratigraphic and biostratigraphic correlation, enhancing our understanding of Late Cretaceous palaeoenvironments.
