Cathedral, Torre Civica and Piazza Grande, Modena
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2017 —
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A comprehensive analysis of the Cathedral, Torre Civica, and Piazza Grande in Modena—part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site—reveals significant subsidence-induced settlements, driven by complex historical construction, subsoil conditions, and both natural and human-induced factors. The study integrates geodetic monitoring data from 1984 with advanced 3D finite element modeling to assess long-term structural behavior, particularly differential settlements that pose risks to the monuments' stability. By incorporating soil characteristics derived from laboratory and in situ tests, the model accurately predicts settlement profiles, aligning with high-precision leveling observations. This approach provides a proactive tool for conservation authorities to manage heritage safety by anticipating risk scenarios.
Central Sikhote-Alin
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2017 —
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Research reveals three distinct low-resistivity zones in the upper mantle beneath northern Sikhote-Alin, coinciding with crustal block boundaries. These zones suggest the presence of an ancient subducting plate and indicate a gradient of increasing resistivity from continent to coast, linked to dry peridotite mantle melting. The study used magnetotelluric soundings (MTS) across 57 sites, analyzing data down to 150 km depth. It confirmed the Vostochny deep fault but found no evidence for deep roots of the Central Sikhote-Alin fault. The crust's resistivity (>1000 Ohm m) and thickness (30–40 km) align with seismic data, while a high-resistivity coastal layer extends to 120 km depth, proposing an evolutionary model starting in the Late Cretaceous.
Volcanoes of Kamchatka
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2017 —
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A study of the Koryaksky-Avachinsky volcanogenic basin in Kamchatka, Russia, reveals that active volcanoes Avachinsky and Koryaksky serve as recharge areas for adjacent thermal mineral springs, with water isotopic data indicating a magmatic origin for CO2 in these systems. The research identifies magma injection zones through seismic activity clusters during volcanic events (2008–2011), occurring at specific depths beneath the volcanoes. Thermal-hydrodynamic modeling using TOUGH2 suggests that distinct hydrogeologic boundaries and heat sources are necessary to replicate observed temperature, pressure, phase, and CO2 distributions. Additionally, methane in Neogene-Quaternary layers around these volcanoes is found to have a thermobiogenic origin.
Petra
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2017 —
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A long-term strategy to mitigate natural hazards and enhance public awareness has significantly advanced the conservation of Petra. The study highlights the effectiveness of targeted interventions, such as geomorphological monitoring and landslide risk mitigation measures, in stabilizing the Siq—a narrow, 1.2 km gorge that serves as the primary tourist entrance to Petra. These efforts have not only reduced the vulnerability of the site but also strengthened the capacity of national authorities through capacity development initiatives. The project underscores a successful model for managing natural hazards at heritage sites, offering valuable insights for broader applications in cultural conservation.
Western Tien-Shan
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2017 —
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The geological evolution of the western Tien Shan Range and adjacent Central Asian basins reveals a dynamic history shaped by multiple tectonic events, from Precambrian-Palaeozoic orogenesis to Cenozoic continental collisions. This study highlights how the accretion of Cimmerian blocks during the Mesozoic and subsequent collisions involving the Indian and Arabian plates led to structural reactivation, intracontinental deformation, and the formation of sedimentary basins. The research integrates multidisciplinary approaches to elucidate the Late Palaeozoic–Cenozoic tectono-sedimentary evolution, emphasizing fault reactivation patterns and the climatic influence on sedimentation. These findings provide a comprehensive framework for understanding the complex interplay between tectonic processes and basin development in this UNESCO-listed region.
Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks
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2017 —
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A comprehensive survey of Geometridae moths (Lepidoptera) across Western Himalayan Protected Areas in Uttarakhand, India, reveals 168 species, including 36 newly recorded for the region and significant altitudinal range expansions for at least 15 species. The study, spanning elevations from 600 to 3600 meters, identified Ennominae as the dominant subfamily while Larentiinae were more restricted to higher elevations. Western Mixed Coniferous forests hosted the greatest species diversity, whereas Subalpine forests exhibited the highest number of indicator species. The assemblage was dominated by Indo-Malayan species but also included a notable number of Himalayan endemics, suggesting long-term adaptation to the region's climatic gradient. Ongoing climate-mediated perturbations pose potential threats to these endemic species.
Evaporitic Karst and Caves of Northern Apennines
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2017 —
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A three-day field trip through the Apuane Alps in northern Tuscany revealed how plate tectonics shapes landscapes and rock formations, from oceanic to continental origins. Participants observed brittle and ductile deformations across different structural levels, linking outcrop-scale structures to mountain-scale folds like pluridecametric folds. The Antro del Corchia cave provided insights into karstification processes, while the Levigliani mine highlighted historical mineralization activities. Interactive lab sessions focused on rock classification, age determination, and geological map interpretation, offering hands-on learning experiences for teachers.
City of Graz – Historic Centre and Schloss Eggenberg
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2017 —
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A breakthrough in 3D city modeling and management has been achieved, demonstrating how advanced photogrammetric workflows can efficiently generate topologically and geometrically accurate 3D geo-objects, such as building models, at various levels of detail. The study, part of the SENECA project, introduces automatic procedures that integrate aerial triangulation, dense image matching, and non-spatial data (e.g., cadastral information and energy consumption) into a web-based 3D geo-database management system. Tested in Trento (Italy) and Graz (Austria), this methodology bridges the gap between visualization and functional applications, offering practical benefits for public administrations and smart city initiatives. The approach not only enhances spatial data processing but also enables dynamic geometry enrichment and real-time accessibility via webGIS platforms.
Rio de Janeiro: Carioca Landscapes between the Mountain and the Sea
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2017 —
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Intestinal parasitic infections are highly prevalent and strongly linked to socioeconomic status in Rio de Janeiro's metropolitan area, with younger children and males at higher risk. A study analyzing 3245 individuals found that 17.5% were infected by at least one parasite, predominantly protozoa like <em>Endolimax nana</em> (28.8%) and <em>Entamoeba coli</em> (14.8%), while helminths such as <em>Strongyloides stercoralis</em> (4.3%) and <em>Schistosoma mansoni</em> (3.3%) were less common. Multiple infections were observed in 24.8% of cases, with geospatial distribution revealing a non-random pattern influenced by material deprivation. The research used stool sample analysis combined with demographic and socioeconomic data to highlight the public health burden of these infections, particularly in socially vulnerable areas.
Wadden Sea
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2017 —
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A novel approach to optimizing oil extraction in the UNESCO-listed Wadden Sea demonstrates that multi-lateral well technology can efficiently maximize reservoir exposure while adhering to environmental constraints. The study, conducted at the Mittelplate oilfield—Germany’s largest offshore accumulation—shows that duo-lateral drilling from a single island structure can sustain production without expanding infrastructure, even in thin sandstone reservoirs. Over 30 years of operation, this method has yielded over 232 million barrels of oil while preserving the integrity of the protected national park and World Heritage Site. The research highlights the feasibility of high-precision geosteering to navigate complex geological formations, offering a model for sustainable offshore energy development in ecologically sensitive regions.
Pantanal Conservation Area
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2017 —
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A study analyzing temporal variations in vegetation indices, including the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), reveals significant differences in environmental protection effectiveness among five conservation units in Brazil's Pantanal. The Taiamã Ecological Station, Pantanal Matogrossense National Park, and Encontro das Águas State Park exhibited high NDVI values, indicating strong environmental protection, despite occasional fire hotspots. In contrast, the Guirá State Park and Pantanal of Rio Negro State Park showed relatively low NDVI values, with the latter experiencing 36 fire hotspots in 2007, highlighting the need for enhanced monitoring and management. This research underscores the potential of geotechnology as a crucial tool for supporting environmental management actions in these protected areas.
Göbekli Tepe
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2017 —
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Göbekli Tepe, a prehistoric site in Anatolia, stands as one of the most significant cultural landscapes in human history. This comprehensive study traces the development of ancient Anatolia from the Neolithic era to the late antiquity, spanning 10,000 years. It highlights key transitions, including the shift from hunter-gatherer societies to settled communities, the rise and spread of early high cultures, the establishment of Greek city-states (poleis), the Persian Empire, Alexander the Great's campaigns, the Hellenistic period, the Roman Empire, and the proliferation of Christianity. The research provides the first holistic narrative of Anatolia's history, integrating archaeological evidence with historical records to offer a panoramic view of this pivotal region's cultural evolution.
Pont du Gard (Roman Aqueduct)
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2017 —
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A study of the Pont du Gard reveals complex and often conflicting relationships among stakeholders involved in its tourism management. The research identifies divergent perceptions of governance and development visions, highlighting power dynamics that can lead to conflict. Using stakeholder theory, the study analyzes semi-directed interviews to classify stakeholders based on their power, legitimacy, and urgency of claims. It also examines how territorial reforms further complicate these relationships. The findings suggest pathways for improved collaboration among stakeholders, aiming to balance interests in a rapidly changing context.
Speyer Cathedral
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2017 —
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Recent research has clarified misconceptions surrounding the 1502 'Bundschuh' riot in Untergrombach, though its root causes remain elusive. A novel analysis of Speyer Cathedral's chapter records reveals a stark connection between the uprising and economic distress, particularly food shortages caused by crop failures in 1501–1502. These records document widespread village requests for cash loans, tax relief, and grain supplies, underscoring the severe hunger crisis faced by small peasants and rural workers. The study links this societal upheaval to the cathedral chapter's paternalistic governance, assessing its failure through ethical frameworks centered on 'aliment' (food) and 'necessity.' This approach offers a nuanced perspective on the intersection of economic hardship and social unrest in early modern Europe.
Historic Centre of Warsaw
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2017 —
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A study reveals how the portrayal of Warsaw in European co-produced films shifted from the 1980s to the 2000s, reflecting changes in its perceived status as a 'European' city. Initially depicted as an undesirable Eastern Bloc setting, Warsaw evolved into a desirable location for settling Cold War narratives and symbolizing post-communist identity. The mid- to late 1990s films emphasized Warsaw's strategic position between Western Europe and the Soviet Union, while post-accession works highlighted multilateral cooperation in 'New Europe'. The Scandinavian-Polish co-production <em>The Woman That Dreamed About a Man</em> (2010) exemplifies this shift through its reflexive and intertextual approach to Warsaw as a shooting location. This analysis draws from 25 years of European cinema, offering insights into how cultural narratives shape perceptions of urban spaces in a post-communist context.
Old Town of Ghadamès
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2017 —
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Ghadames exhibits a unique urban structure characterized by houses stacked atop one another with subterranean tunnel access, making it highly defensible. This study highlights the town's resilience and strategic architecture, which has remained largely unchanged since the 19th century. The research draws on historical correspondence, including letters from Major Alexander Gordon Laing, to explore Ghadames' significance during his trans-Saharan journey. It also sheds light on the town's past rebellions and economic burdens, such as the crippling fines imposed in 1810. The study provides insights into the town's enduring design and its role in historical trade routes.
Sun Temple, Konârak
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2017 —
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A stone carving from the 13th-century Konark Sun Temple in Odisha, India, has sparked debate over whether it depicts a giraffe or a camel. While giraffes are native to Africa and camels were historically absent from eastern India, both animals were valued as diplomatic gifts. The study uses this enigmatic carving to explore medieval trade dynamics in the region, suggesting that the animal likely represents a camel due to its anatomical features and historical context. This interpretation challenges conventional assumptions about the representation of exotic fauna in Indian art and sheds light on the cultural significance of trade between India and other regions during the medieval period.
Babylon
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2017 —
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A GIS-based study identifies two potential landfill sites in Al-Musayiab Qadhaa, Babylon, Iraq, capable of accommodating solid waste up to 2030. The research combines the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Simple Additive Weighting (SAW) methods to evaluate fifteen key criteria, including groundwater depth, soil types, infrastructure, and archaeological sites. By comparing the results from both methods, the study pinpoints suitable areas of 7.965–5.952 km² that meet scientific landfill selection standards, addressing a critical gap in waste management for the region.
Tchogha Zanbil
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2017 —
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Archaeologists have uncovered evidence of early glassmaking at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tchogha Zanbil, dating to the Early 2nd Millennium BC. The discovery includes glass wires, suggesting sophisticated metallurgical techniques were employed by ancient Iranian civilizations. The study employs archaeometric analysis to examine these artifacts, providing insights into the technological advancements of the time. This finding challenges previous assumptions about the timeline and spread of glassmaking technologies in the region.
Göbekli Tepe
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2017 —
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Göbekli Tepe, a ceremonial site emerging during the Great Thaw at the end of the Ice Age, presents a radical shift from Palaeolithic cave art. Unlike the graceful beauty of animal representations in caves, Göbekli Tepe's depictions convey danger, apprehension, and threat. This site, located near Natufian areas, challenges the notion that agricultural crises spurred its development. Instead, it reflects a cultural response to overcrowding and the intertwining of life and death, marking a significant transition in human ritual practices.
City of Cuzco
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2017 —
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During the Good Neighbor era (1930s–1940s), Machu Picchu emerged as both a global tourist destination and a national symbol of Peru, reflecting a convergence of US foreign policy goals, Peruvian state ambitions, and local regional aspirations. The study reveals how transnational collaboration—driven by hemispheric solidarity efforts—positioned the Inca archaeological site at Cuzco as a strategic cultural asset, blending international diplomacy with local identity politics. While US initiatives sought to strengthen Latin American alliances, Peruvian and Cuzco-based actors leveraged tourism development to reinforce regional pride and political narratives, demonstrating how global and local forces shaped the rise of Machu Picchu.
Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork
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2017 —
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A multi-analytical study of green glazed tiles from the Holy Virgin Mary Church at Malbork Castle reveals that what was previously thought to be paint is actually a heavily deteriorated medieval glaze. The research, conducted using portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, SEM–EDS, SEM–WDS, micro-Raman spectroscopy, and powder X-ray micro-diffraction, identified SiO2–PbO as the primary glaze composition, with white, yellow, and black pigments added as opacifiers and colorants. Copper and iron were used for coloring, while originally added pigments transformed into new phases like antimony-doped tin oxide. The findings confirm the tiles' medieval origin, providing insights into the glazing technology of Gothic architecture.
Uvs Nuur Basin
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2017 —
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Research reveals distinct acoustic signals and habitat preferences between two grasshopper species, Podismopsis altaica and P. poppiusi, in the Altai Mountains of Russia's Uvs Nuur Basin UNESCO World Heritage Site. The study describes for the first time the calling signal of P. altaica, highlighting that its repetition period shortens under lower temperatures compared to P. poppiusi. Additionally, the species inhabit different elevations: P. altaica thrives in alpine zones, while P. poppiusi favors meadows and meadow-steppes. These differences prevent close contact between their populations, suggesting ecological segregation. The findings were derived from field observations within the Mongun-Taiga cluster of the Uvs Nuur Basin Biosphere Reserve.
Mistaken Point
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2017 —
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Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve (MPER) on Newfoundland's southeastern coast is a pivotal global site for Ediacaran fossil research, hosting some of the oldest known soft-bodied macrobiota assemblages. Since their discovery in 1967, MPER's fossils have significantly advanced understanding of Ediacaran paleobiology by preserving in situ benthic paleocommunities with thousands of specimens, enabling detailed studies on ecology, development, preservation processes, taxonomy, and morphology. These insights provide clues about the phylogenetic positions of Ediacaran taxa within the tree of life. A continuous geological record spanning at least 10 million years further contextualizes these fossils temporally and environmentally.
Historic Cairo
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2017 —
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Traditional architecture of Historic Cairo demonstrates significant potential for enhancing thermal comfort in hot arid climates through passive design methods. This study highlights that the El-Suhaimi house, a historic structure, offers sustainable solutions applicable to modern green architecture. By analyzing this case study using Design Builder simulation software, researchers confirmed its environmental adaptability and local identity. The findings suggest that integrating elements from historic Cairo's architectural style can inform contemporary green building practices, providing a model for environmentally conscious urban development in similar climates.
Agra Fort
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2017 —
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Medieval Indian cities, including Agra Fort, demonstrated advanced green urbanism principles that outpaced modern urban settlements in sustainability and density. This study reveals how pre-modern technology cities thrived with efficient resource use, providing insights into historical eco-city design. By analyzing Agra Fort's development, the research reconstructs its sustainable practices—such as water management, vegetation integration, and spatial organization—that ensured long-term functionality without modern infrastructure. The approach combines archival analysis, spatial mapping, and comparative urban studies to uncover these adaptive strategies, offering lessons for contemporary urban planning in developing nations.
Historic City of Ahmadabad
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2017 —
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Ahmedabad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and commercial hub of Gujarat with over 5 million residents, is transforming its urban landscape through strategic green infrastructure (GI) investments to enhance resilience against socio-economic and ecological pressures. The city's 3rd Development Plan, led by the Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority (AUDA), aims to integrate GI projects like the Sabarmati Riverfront into functional ecological networks. A key finding from this study is that while the plan outlines ambitious goals, its implementation faces challenges in balancing strategic objectives with localized socio-environmental needs. The research evaluates the transition from policy rhetoric to practical delivery, drawing on stakeholder insights to assess whether GI projects are effectively addressing both broad and community-specific requirements.
Old Town of Corfu
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2017 —
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In the Old Town of Corfu, Greece the mutual gaze between tourists and locals is characterized by reciprocity, friendliness, and balance, particularly in the Dassia area. This study builds on existing academic frameworks, such as those proposed by Urry and Larsen, to explore how perceptions and interactions shape the dynamic between service providers, residents, and visitors. Unlike other parts of Greece, Corfu's identity is less marked by alienation or exoticism, offering a unique lens through which to examine sustainable tourism in Mediterranean contexts. The research draws on qualitative methods, including personal accounts and academic references, to highlight the nuanced relationships that define this reciprocal gaze.
M'Zab Valley
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2017 —
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A study identifies the M'Zab Valley, Ghardaia, as a promising region for sustainable water supply using photovoltaic water pumping systems (PVWPS). The research reveals that the valley's groundwater table is abundant, with static averages ranging from 50 to 150 meters depending on location. Key zones—Ben-Isguen, Bounoura, and AL-Atteuf—are deemed optimal for PVWPS installations due to their favorable hydraulic structures. The study combines field investigations with statistical data analysis to assess groundwater behavior, aiming to optimize system performance amid dynamic variables like solar radiation and temperature. This approach addresses the need for reliable water supply in remote desert areas, offering a sustainable solution for domestic usage.
Paraty and Ilha Grande – Culture and Biodiversity
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2017 —
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A groundbreaking study reveals that Guiana dolphins (Sotalia guianensis) in Ilha Grande Bay, Brazil, exhibit highly variable group structures influenced by behavior and season. Researchers observed 1,314 groups, with a staggering 94.4% containing calves—a record high for the species—suggesting a protective strategy for underdeveloped individuals. Group sizes averaged 17.6 members, while cohesion levels varied significantly with behavioral states and seasonal changes. This work sheds light on the complex social dynamics of this 'data deficient' IUCN-listed species, offering critical insights for conservation efforts in an area increasingly threatened by human activities.
Villa Adriana (Tivoli)
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2017 —
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A digital reinterpretation of the architectural restoration work at the Teatro Marittimo, part of Villa Adriana (Tivoli), reveals inconsistencies and errors in the 1950s anastylosis process. This study leverages advanced surveying techniques—including laser scanning and photogrammetry—to reconstruct the original layout of fragmented decorations, particularly focusing on the frieze's miscellaneous elements. By analyzing the opus caementicium remains, researchers identify reference surfaces and cross-sections to achieve precise fragment placement, offering a more accurate restoration model. This approach provides critical insights into the challenges posed by past restoration efforts and sets guidelines for future digital reinterpretations of similar architectural sites.
Historic Fortified City of Carcassonne
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2017 —
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Guiding practices at the Historic Fortified City of Carcassonne reveal that the role of guides transcends traditional knowledge transmission, focusing instead on fostering passion for history and a desire to learn. Unlike audioguides or autonomous exploration, guided tours led by volunteers—often referred to as 'wardens'—prioritize human interaction and shared experience over structured information. This study highlights how such informal mediation strengthens the connection between visitors and heritage sites, blending modern expectations with timeless storytelling traditions. The research employed qualitative inquiry, observing these guides in action to uncover the nuances of their approach.
Galápagos Islands
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2017 —
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Habitat filtering, not dispersal limitation, primarily shapes the species composition of oceanic island floras, including those in the Galápagos archipelago. This counterintuitive finding emerges from a comprehensive analysis of ~39,000 plant species, their phylogeny, dispersal strategies, and climatic suitability. The study suggests that only a subset of continental species, with specific niche requirements, can establish themselves on remote islands, which may explain the prevalence of adaptive radiation in such environments. This challenges the long-held assumption that dispersal limitation is the dominant factor in species assembly on oceanic islands.
Palace and Gardens of Schönbrunn
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2017 —
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A significant collection of 'Indian' objects, integral to the creation of opulent room ensembles at Schönbrunn Palace, existed at the Viennese court by the mid-18th century. This discovery sheds light on Emperor Francis I's and Maria Theresa's role in fostering such collections, which included rare plants, animals, and artworks, as part of their broader passion for extraordinary goods. The study examines how these 'Indian' objects were integrated into the palace's design, contributing to its renowned artistic and cultural significance. By analyzing historical records and imperial residences, the research reconstructs the context and purpose of these collections, providing insights into Habsburg monarchs' eclectic tastes and their influence on European courtly culture.
Maya Site of Copan
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2017 —
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A groundbreaking agreement between the Harvard University Peabody Museum and the Honduras Government in 1891 marked a pivotal moment for Maya heritage conservation. This convention established the first long-term archaeological project in the region, setting a precedent for foreign interventions at UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Copán. The study delves into the context and implications of this contract through exhaustive documentary research, including previously unpublished data. It reveals how this legal framework reshaped archaeological research practices in the Maya area, leaving a lasting impact on heritage conservation strategies.
Fertö / Neusiedlersee Cultural Landscape
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2017 —
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A transboundary UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Fertö/Neusiedlersee Cultural Landscape, exhibits both harmonious and disharmonious elements in its settlement structures. The study identifies key architectural values essential for preserving its unique character while allowing for sustainable development. Through comparative analysis of two settlements—Purbach (Austria) and Illmitz (Hungary)—it reveals that while both share continuous parcellation patterns, Purbach maintains higher historical substance due to material durability and economic factors. Disharmonies, often stemming from minor, unregulated interventions, can be mitigated with targeted measures to restore or uphold visual coherence. The research provides actionable insights for balancing conservation with evolution in this culturally significant region.
Hyrcanian Forests
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2017 —
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A study on the Hyrcanian Forests reveals that logging wounds on broadleaf trees heal at rates ranging from 6.4 to 24.0 mm per year, with significant variations influenced by tree species, slope aspect, elevation, wound age, and type. Notably, Fraxinus excelsior, Alnus subcordata, and Fagus orientalis exhibit the highest healing rates (17.9–24.0 mm/yr), while Tilia begonifolia shows the slowest (6.4 mm/yr). Wounds on northern slopes heal faster than those on southern slopes, and horizontal wounds outpace vertical ones. Healing is also more rapid in stands with 60–80% canopy closure and decreases with wound width or age. These findings underscore the importance of selective logging practices to minimize long-term impacts on forest productivity.
Vilnius Historic Centre
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2017 —
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A study of surface runoff sediments in Vilnius, Lithuania, reveals significant heavy metal contamination (Pb, Zn, Cu, Cr, Ba, As, and Fe), particularly in central urban areas with intense traffic. Geospatial analysis identified active pollution sources, while principal components analysis and t-tests distinguished seasonal differences in sediment composition between autumn and winter samples. The research highlights the role of permeable surfaces and green spaces in mitigating urban waterway pollution, offering a method to trace contamination origins and assess its environmental impact.
Kahuzi-Biega National Park
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2017 —
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African tropical montane forests exhibit significant variation in height-diameter allometry with altitude, which introduces substantial biases if regional models are used to estimate above-ground biomass (AGB). A study across Kahuzi-Biega National Park in the Albertine Rift revealed that while AGB ranged from 168 to 290 Mg ha⁻¹ without significant differences between forest types, tree size decreased and stem density increased with altitude. The research highlights that different height-diameter allometric models perform better for distinct forest types, emphasizing the need for tailored approaches in future studies. Soil attributes, particularly potassium levels and acidity, also significantly influenced AGB, underscoring the complex interplay of structural, taxonomic, and environmental factors in shaping biomass dynamics.
Henderson Island
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Henderson Island, a pristine UNESCO World Heritage Site, has become a significant repository for plastic waste due to the accumulation of debris transported by a broad, permanent surface current. This current, characterized by its high temperature, shallow depth (around 100 meters), and sluggish speed (10-20 cm/sec), flows southeastward past the island, which is located at the midpoint of this extensive warm current spanning over 5000 km along 28 S. The study suggests that understanding the origin of this plastic waste more precisely could potentially mitigate its accumulation on Henderson Island's beaches, offering a path to preserve this unique environment.
National Archeological Park of Tierradentro
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2017 —
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The designation of the Tierradentro Archaeological Park as a UNESCO World Heritage Site has exacerbated intercultural conflicts within the Nasa Indigenous Territory in Colombia, primarily due to the lack of consultation with indigenous communities during heritage management planning. This study reveals that the 'World Heritage Chain'—comprising international, national, and local governance structures—has inadvertently deepened tensions by prioritizing global heritage recognition over local indigenous perspectives. Through ethnographic mapping of discourses and key conflict points, the research identifies how the Colombian Institute of Anthropology and History's management plan for Tierradentro overlooked Nasa governance, leading to escalating disputes since 2006. The findings underscore the need for inclusive, culturally sensitive approaches in heritage conservation that balance global recognition with indigenous rights and local governance.
San Antonio Missions
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2017 —
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Early twentieth-century preservation efforts at San Antonio’s Spanish missions reveal how heritage memory and identity were constructed through architectural restoration. Led by figures like Adina De Zavala, the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, and the San Antonio Conservation Society, these initiatives transformed the missions from romanticized symbols of a colonial past into emblematic representations of San Antonio’s modern identity. The 1936 large-scale restoration of Mission San José marked a shift in understanding the historical and architectural significance of the city’s Spanish colonial heritage, reflecting broader national trends in colonial-era design revival.
Melaka and George Town, Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca
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Living heritage sites in Melaka, such as Kampung Morten, Kampung Chetti, and Kampung Portugis, serve as vital platforms for expressing cultural identity and sharing knowledge across generations. A study involving semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with community members revealed that these sites foster a sense of pride and continuity, despite challenges related to authenticity and modernization. Participants emphasized the role of living heritage in preserving ethnic-specific traditions and maintaining relevance in a multicultural society. The research highlights the importance of local community participation in conservation efforts, aligning with UNESCO's requirements for World Heritage Sites like Melaka and George Town.
Pasargadae
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A new framework integrating social movement theory with heritage research reveals how collective identity and heritage are co-produced through political and interpretive processes. By applying this approach to the World Heritage site of Pasargadae, Iran, the study demonstrates that heritage activists can successfully advance their perspectives within official discourse, leading to the inclusion of pre-Islamic heritage in the Islamic republic's narrative. This method addresses gaps in existing heritage research by offering a set of questions that open new avenues for analyzing heritage movements and contests.
Baroque Churches of the Philippines
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While adequate laws exist to protect the UNESCO-listed Baroque churches of Paoay and Sta. Maria in the Philippines, enforcement remains inconsistent, particularly due to local government funding constraints. The study reveals that parish priests play a pivotal role in preservation success, underscoring their need for conservation expertise. Management is shared among task forces, municipal governments, homeowners associations, NGOs (Paoay), or heritage district councils (Sta. Maria). Though local governments are supportive, financial limitations hinder Sta. Maria's compliance with protection requirements.
Sceilg Mhichíl
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2017 —
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Skellig Michael, a UNESCO World Heritage Site off the southwest coast of Ireland, exemplifies shifting heritage dynamics driven by local community engagement and evolving relationships with national and international governance. The study reveals that while Skellig Michael's cultural practices have undergone significant changes, these transformations are not solely top-down but also reflect grassroots initiatives aimed at preserving its unique heritage. This case-study highlights the tension between traditional conservation approaches and emerging community-led models of heritage protection, offering insights into how local stakeholders navigate global UNESCO frameworks while maintaining their own cultural narratives.
Stone Town of Zanzibar
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A significant but precarious reliance on tourism for youth incomes is evident in Zanzibar Stone Town, with over 60% of surveyed youth deriving primary income from the sector. This longitudinal analysis (2000–2026) reveals a persistent gap between formal conservation policy and informal economic practices, particularly among youth-led cultural enterprises operating at the margins of regulations. The study highlights adaptive but often unsustainable livelihood strategies that both challenge and sustain the heritage landscape. To address this, the research proposes integrating youth-led informal enterprises into formal conservation and business development frameworks, co-designing capacity-building programmes with youth stakeholders, and reforming governance structures to enable more participatory decision-making. The analysis employs a mixed-methods case study design, synthesising policy analysis, structured surveys of youth involved in the tourism economy, and in-depth interviews with key stakeholders.
Historic Centres of Berat and Gjirokastra
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2017 —
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A planned bypass road project in Gjirokastra, Albania, despite its initial intent to redirect traffic and create a pedestrian zone, poses significant threats to the Historic Centre of Gjirokastra. The 'Forum for the Protection of the Values of Gjirokastra' identified five key technical and legal arguments demonstrating that the project endangers the structural integrity and Outstanding Universal Values of the city. These concerns were raised during a public consultation but ignored by authorities. A detailed report, involving multidisciplinary expertise, highlighted the multi-level impacts of the project, including procedural flaws and potential heritage damage.
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
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2017 —
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Buffel grass (Cenchrus ciliaris) habitats at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park support significantly higher herpetofaunal species richness compared to native vegetation-dominated areas, including Themeda grasses. Despite concerns about invasive species impacting biodiversity, this study found that buffel grass-dominated zones hosted more reptile and amphibian diversity than expected, though the relationship may be influenced by factors such as proximity to breeding sites or abiotic conditions rather than the grass itself. Researchers analyzed 26 sampling locations around Uluru using vegetation transects and pitfall traps, identifying five distinct vegetation communities and applying indicator species analysis and non-metric multidimensional scaling to assess herpetofaunal patterns.
Tsodilo
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2017 —
WHEE6B85F36DA
Heteroglossic heritage allows multiple social groups to coexist without dissonance, reaffirming shared identities through emotional performances during heritage tourism. This study demonstrates that visitors' affect-mediated encounters with heritage places, such as Tsodilo Hills in Botswana, facilitate the maintenance of collective identity for local ethnic communities, national citizens, and global segments. Using Bakhtin’s concept of heteroglossia, the research explores how archaeology and tourism interplay to enable diverse claims to a 'first-place'—a place attributed with origin narratives—within postcolonial nation-building contexts. The findings highlight that heritage discourse is inherently heteroglossic, particularly when politicized and re-spatialized through modernizing tourism development.
