Kuk Early Agricultural Site
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2017 —
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Two widespread Late Holocene tephras, Tibito and Olgaboli, have been identified within sediment cores from Lake Kutubu, the largest upland lake in Papua New Guinea. This discovery extends their known distributions further southwest into the southern Highlands region, affirming their significance as inter-regional stratigraphic markers for late Holocene palaeoenvironmental, archaeological, and volcanic hazard studies. The study employed a combination of core stratigraphy, sediment properties, and geochemical characterization (electron microprobe and laser ablation inductively coupled-plasma mass spectrometry) to correlate these tephras with previously described distal localities. Glass shard compositional data strongly support Long Island as the eruptive source for Tibito tephra, while Olgaboli tephra's source is less certain but likely originates from Karkar Island.
East Rennell
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2017 —
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Solomon Islands' approach to protecting UNESCO World Heritage Sites, particularly East Rennell, reveals significant gaps between customary and state legal frameworks that hinder effective conservation. This study identifies critical challenges in implementing the World Heritage Convention in the Pacific, offering actionable recommendations for strengthening legal protection across Pacific Island States. By analyzing socio-legal dynamics, it highlights how customary practices often conflict with international obligations, undermining site preservation efforts.
Tasmanian Wilderness
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2017 —
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Researchers have discovered living freshwater stromatolites in the peat-bound karstic wetlands of the Giblin River catchment, part of Australia's UNESCO-listed Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. These stromatolites, which are rare and typically found in extreme marine or saline environments, thrive in mildly alkaline conditions (pH 7.0-7.9) created by karstic spring mounds within an otherwise acidic terrain. The study used 16S rRNA gene clone library analysis to reveal a unique bacterial community dominated by Cyanobacteria, Alphaproteobacteria, and Chloroflexi, among others. Additionally, the findings suggest that stromatolites may flourish where metazoan predation is suppressed, as evidenced by the sparse macroinvertebrate population and shell damage in snails due to carbonate accumulations. This discovery challenges the conventional understanding of stromatolite habitats, indicating they may be more widespread than previously believed.
Lake Baikal
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A significant shift in the phytoplankton composition of Lake Baikal's littoral zone, indicative of eutrophication, has been documented between 2000 and 2015. The study revealed a dramatic increase in small-sized Chlamydomonas species, such as <em>Chlamydomonas komma</em>, reaching up to 7 million cells per liter—a stark contrast to their absence in the lake during 1975–1990. Additionally, Euglenophyta, markers of organic contamination, and filamentous Spirogyra algae were found in abundance near populated areas like Kultuk, Slyudyanka, Baikalsk, and Severobaikalsk. Notably, endemic species of the 'Baikal complex' disappeared during spring 2013. This structural change suggests accelerating eutrophication, threatening the ecological balance of this UNESCO-listed site. The research analyzed long-term data to assess these trends.
Sinharaja Forest Reserve
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2017 —
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A climate-driven divergence in vocalization patterns has been identified in the Brown-Capped Babbler (Pellorneum fuscocapillus), an endemic forest bird of Sri Lanka. This study, conducted across four distinct climatic zones—including Sinharaja Forest Reserve and Mihintale Sanctuary—revealed that vocal repertoires vary significantly between wet and dry zones, as well as between mid and low elevations. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) demonstrated clear clustering of vocalizations based on climate, suggesting potential evolutionary adaptations to environmental conditions. The research analyzed seven vocal types, with 'Pretty dear' and 'Long chirp' being the most prevalent, using parameters like frequency modulation and temporal structure. This finding highlights the species' complex communication system as a possible indicator of ecological and evolutionary responses to climatic gradients.
Volcanoes of Kamchatka
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2017 —
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A seismic tomography model of Gorely Volcano, Kamchatka, reveals the structure of volatile conduits beneath the volcano. The study identified a 2.5 km wide and 1.5 km thick magma reservoir with high Vp/Vs ratios (up to 2) located 2.5 km below the surface, indicating a region with high melt or volatile content. This reservoir coincides with intense seismicity, suggesting it marks the degassing level. Below this reservoir, another columnar anomaly was observed, interpreted as a conduit supplying magma and fluids from deeper sources. The study used data from 333 local earthquake events recorded by a temporary seismic network over one year, providing the first tomographic model of Gorely Volcano.
Virunga National Park
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2017 —
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A novel approach combining local knowledge with structured stakeholder engagement has successfully generated diverse and inclusive agroforestry options, addressing the limitations of traditional monoculture-focused strategies. In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), around Virunga National Park—a global biodiversity hotspot—this method identified over 70 tree species suited to varied local conditions, benefiting a broader range of stakeholders, including women and marginalized groups. Unlike conventional approaches that rely on a few priority species, this inclusive process also highlighted key interventions for scaling up adoption, such as improved access to quality planting material, capacity-building in extension systems, and collective market strategies. The findings demonstrate how integrating local and global scientific knowledge, alongside broad-based stakeholder participation, can foster more productive and resilient landscapes, offering a scalable model for agroforestry development.
Struve Geodetic Arc
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2017 —
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A groundbreaking geodetic project spanning the 19th century, the Struve Geodetic Arc, stands as one of the most precise meridian arc measurements of its time. Stretching 2820 km from the Danube mouth to the Arctic Ocean, this network of triangulation points was established between 1816 and 1852 by scientists from modern-day Norway, Sweden, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Belarus, Ukraine, Moldova, and Russia. The data collected during this period were remarkably accurate for the era, contributing significantly to the computation and refinement of Earth's ellipsoid parameters throughout the century. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005, three points in Lithuania—Meškonys, Paliepiukai, and Gireišiai—were commemorated. This publication highlights the preservation challenges and best practices for maintaining such heritage sites, emphasizing the importance of international collaboration, public awareness, and knowledge exchange among stakeholders.
Borobudur Temple Compounds
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2017 —
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Junior high school students near Borobudur Temple perceive the site as a valuable geometry model, endorsing its potential to enhance mathematical learning. A study involving 313 participants found strong agreement on three key factors: Borobudur's geometric complexity, its suitability as an educational resource, and its perceived benefits for student learning. Using exploratory factor analysis with a high total variance (49.572%) and reliable Cronbach alpha (0.8204), the research confirms Borobudur’s architectural intricacies—such as stupas, statues, and relief carvings—as effective teaching tools. These findings suggest integrating cultural heritage into mathematics education could improve learning outcomes.
Rabat, Modern Capital and Historic City: a Shared Heritage
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2017 —
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A study at the UNESCO-listed Chellah archaeological site in Rabat, Morocco, identified 20 species of bryophytes contributing to significant biodeterioration. Four dominant families—Pottiaceae, Brachyceciaceae, Funariaceae, and Bryaceae—accounted for 65% of the total bryological flora, with three species newly recorded in the region: <em>Entosthodon pulchellus</em>, <em>Dydimodon fallax</em>, and <em>Trichostomum crispulum</em>. The research involved systematic sampling across autumn 2014, spring 2015, and winter 2016. Bryophytes were found to initiate soil formation on substrates, compromising material durability. This study highlights the role of bryophytes in cultural heritage degradation and provides a baseline for further conservation efforts.
Mount Taishan
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2017 —
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A novel method for quantitatively analyzing topographic relief in small areas, such as Mount Tai (Taishan), has been developed. This approach combines Density-Based Spatial Clustering of Applications with Noise (DBSCAN) and the Minimum Bounding Rectangle technique to create moving windows, enabling precise spatial analysis using 30-meter resolution DEM data from Taishan District. The study reveals a strong correlation between Relief Amplitude and contour frequency distribution, offering a new algorithm for classifying topographic relief degrees. This method enhances the understanding of terrain characteristics in UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Mount Taishan, providing valuable insights for conservation and management efforts.
Central Sikhote-Alin
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2017 —
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A study reveals that the background levels of rare-earth elements (REEs) in surface waters of Primorsky region, Russia, exhibit significant variability, ranging from 0.1 to 1.3 micrograms per liter. The highest REE concentrations, between 0.48 and 1.3 micrograms per liter, are found in rivers within the Eastern and Central Sikhote-Alin catchment areas, which lie within the Sikhote-Alin volcanic belt. In contrast, Western Sikhote-Alin shows the lowest REE concentration at 0.09 micrograms per liter. The distribution profile of REEs is consistent across different regions, marked by a deficiency in Cerium (Ce) and an enrichment in medium group REEs. This research provides critical insights into the geographical variation of REE levels in surface waters, which could have implications for understanding geological processes and environmental dynamics in this region.
Heritage of Mercury. Almadén and Idrija
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2017 —
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A study on the UNESCO-listed site of Almadén and Idrija reveals that the microtremor HVSR method can effectively estimate resonance frequencies without detailed subsurface knowledge, aiding seismic microzonation. The research analyzed 70 free-field measurements in Idrija, Slovenia, identifying sediment resonance at 48 points despite limited space and high noise levels. Surprisingly, no clear correlation emerged between resonance frequencies or peak amplitudes and known soft sediments, likely due to compacted deposits and complex geometries. However, individual locations showed correlations with geological structures, highlighting potential site effects. The study underscores the HVSR method's importance for assessing soil-structure resonance in protected heritage buildings and supports soil classification for building codes.
Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek
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2017 —
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Subglacial discharges of meltwater create small but highly intensive foraging hotspots for sea birds, such as black-legged kittiwakes, in tidewater glacier bays. These hotspots form when subglacial discharge reaches the surface with high entrainment velocity and sufficient macroplankton, influencing glacier bay hydrology and seabird foraging patterns. The study combined GPS tracking of kittiwakes, satellite imagery analysis, and in situ measurements of water properties to examine the variability and dynamics of these hotspots. Findings reveal that the position and type of subglacial discharges fluctuate over time and space, impacting both glacier bay hydrology and seabird foraging behavior.
Old Havana and its Fortification System
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2017 —
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Participatory design approaches, such as Cuba's Community Architect Program, while innovative, face significant obstacles in historic urban contexts like Old Havana. Despite its rapid expansion and success in providing design advice to self-help builders nationwide, the program's effectiveness in Old Havana is limited by barriers such as access to materials, construction challenges, and management issues. A study analyzing two home renovation projects and resident perceptions revealed that while participatory design can foster community engagement, it must be complemented by broader initiatives addressing practical aspects of housing development to fully benefit low-income residents.
Archaeological Zone of Paquimé, Casas Grandes
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2017 —
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Researchers successfully reconstructed whole mitochondrial genomes from ancient dental samples, providing the first genetic evidence linking Greater Nicoya and Casas Grandes cultures to contemporary Isthmo-Columbian and Greater Southwest populations. Using advanced mitogenome capture and high-throughput sequencing, the study analyzed 14 samples from northwest Costa Rica (A.D. 800-1250) and Mexico (A.D. 1200-1450), achieving full reconstructions for eight individuals. The findings reveal distinct haplogroups in Greater Nicoya (B2d, associated with Chibchan-speakers) and Casas Grandes (C1c1a, C1c5, B2f, and B2a, linked to North American and Mesoamerican populations). This breakthrough addresses long-standing questions about the genetic affinities of borderland cultures in ancient Mesoamerica.
Grand Canyon National Park
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2017 —
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A significant gender disparity exists among suicides in the Grand Canyon National Park (GCNP), with 83% of cases involving men, slightly higher than the national average. This study provides the first estimate of suicide rates in the GCNP by analyzing 47 known suicides through 2004 using a mixed-methods approach that combines qualitative data with quantitative analysis. The research examines demographic variables, social strains, psychiatric morbidity, and suicide methods to shed light on why individuals seek out national parks for such acts. Anecdotal evidence suggests many view the park as a meaningful or special place, contributing to its prominence in suicide-related incidents among U.S. national parks.
Yellowstone National Park
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2017 —
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Research reveals that Sulfolobus islandicus populations in Yellowstone National Park's hot springs are structured into independent meta-populations, shaped by geographic isolation and abiotic factors like spring size and landscape position. While geochemistry influences regional population differentiation, temporal changes in these populations are not explained by corresponding geochemical variations. Instead, events such as storm-induced destabilization of smaller springs, leading to extinction or bottleneck effects, drive high variation over time. The study used deep amplicon sequencing to analyze 148 unique alleles at two loci across seven hot springs sampled over three years, providing evidence for low migration between springs and the dominance of local selective forces.
The Sundarbans
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2017 —
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Climate change poses severe threats to the Sundarbans mangroves, including salinity intrusion, increased cyclones, and erratic rainfall and temperature patterns, which are already disrupting livelihoods and exacerbating social vulnerabilities. This study systematically reviews the biodiversity, ecosystem dynamics, and services of the Sundarbans mangroves in relation to climatic variations, highlighting their critical role in carbon sequestration, sediment trapping, nutrient recycling, and supporting rich biodiversity through detritus-based food webs. The research underscores the urgent need for high-resolution scientific data to identify multidimensional vulnerabilities and integrate conservation strategies with climate change adaptation, including promoting alternative livelihoods. Interdisciplinary approaches are essential to mitigate future climatic disasters and protect the invaluable ecosystem services provided by this unique coastal wetland.
Paris, Banks of the Seine
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2017 —
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Le Marais, Paris, exemplifies the complex interplay between tourism, gentrification, and heritage. The study introduces 'hyper-tourismification,' a stage of tourism development marked by an ultra-sophisticated, high-end product that reshapes urban morphology. It links this phenomenon to residential and commercial gentrification, revealing how tourism accelerates the transformation of historic districts. Le Marais, originally a 17th-century district with decaying mansions, underwent densification in the 19th century due to industrial businesses. The research connects these processes, offering insights into the dynamics of urban change driven by tourism and gentrification.
Ujung Kulon National Park
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2017 —
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A low prevalence (1.8%) of antibodies to Pasteurella multocida, the bacterium causing hemorrhagic septicemia (HS), was detected in water buffalo adjacent to Ujung Kulon National Park (UKNP), indicating a limited but present risk to the endangered Javan rhinoceros population. The study, conducted between 2012 and 2013, analyzed samples from 770 buffalo across 19 villages, finding no active bacterial infections but identifying potential risk factors linked to husbandry practices, such as lack of permanent housing, poor body condition, and grazing inside the park. These findings suggest that while HS is not widespread in Banten Province, targeted surveillance and preventative measures could mitigate risks to both buffalo livelihoods and rhinoceros conservation efforts aimed at expanding their range beyond UKNP.
Monastery of Batalha
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A study of the Founder’s Chapel at the Monastery of Batalha, Portugal, reveals that ultrasonic propagation and Schmidt hammer test results consistently reflect the stone's characteristics, providing a non-destructive method for assessing material properties. This finding offers valuable insights for the conservation and restoration of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The research involved visual inspections to map pathologies, followed by non-destructive testing techniques such as thermography and humidity measurements, conducted using equipment from the Polytechnic Institute of Leiria. These methods allowed for a comprehensive evaluation of the chapel's state of conservation while minimizing invasive procedures.
Pantanal Conservation Area
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2017 —
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A more nuanced, interdisciplinary approach to land tenure is essential for balancing sustainability and local wellbeing in the Pantanal floodplain. Traditional policies focusing solely on granting land titles often exacerbate conflicts by ignoring complex, overlapping systems of resource use and property rights. This study reveals that government interventions, rooted in Western legal frameworks, have failed to address the nuanced realities of land ownership and access in the Pantanal, leading to prolonged disputes without tangible benefits for local communities or environmental conservation. By integrating economics, ecology, and anthropology—concepts such as bundle of rights, de facto and de jure resource use, and non-equilibrium theory—the research demonstrates how a holistic perspective can resolve contested claims more effectively, fostering both poverty alleviation and biodiversity protection.
Old City of Sana'a
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2017 —
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The Old City of Sana'a exemplifies sustainable traditional Yemeni architecture, adapting to its mountainous and semi-arid climate while meeting inhabitants' needs. This study identifies key sustainability elements—such as local material use, climate responsiveness, environmental integration, and water/waste management—that can be applied to contemporary architecture. By analyzing residential complexes and urban fabric, the research highlights how Sana'a's organic design achieves comfort and efficiency, offering a model for modern Yemeni architecture. The findings underscore the potential of integrating traditional sustainability practices into contemporary urban planning.
Angkor
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2017 —
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A study on Angkor reveals that the emphasis of its management policy on sustainable development has primarily resulted in the conservation of traditional villagescapes, rather than tangible developmental outcomes for local communities. The term 'villagescape,' a neologism derived from Appadurai's 'ethnoscape,' describes the landscape shaped by the people inhabiting it. This research highlights a disconnect between policy intentions and actual results, focusing on the preservation efforts led by APSARA (Authority for the Protection and Management of Angkor and the Region of Siem Reap) rather than the socio-economic benefits for residents.
Old City of Jerusalem and its Walls
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2017 —
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A sustainable framework for managing archaeology and heritage in the Old City of Jerusalem is proposed, emphasizing transparent, predictable, and balanced procedures to support long-term preservation while addressing political sensitivities. The study builds on international best practices, assigning economic and cultural values to heritage resources and advocating for UNESCO's role in fostering collaboration. It also highlights the need for structural assessments to mitigate potential engineering impacts, ensuring sustainable management in a complex urban environment.
Serengeti National Park
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2017 —
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Roads in Serengeti National Park, while essential for wildlife management and tourism, face significant sustainability challenges. A study reveals that the poor performance of gravel roads is primarily due to insufficient financial and human resources, subpar material quality, and high traffic volumes. The research, conducted through soil testing, traffic volume analysis, document reviews, and stakeholder interviews with 50 participants, highlights critical gaps in road construction and maintenance practices. These findings underscore the need for improved resource allocation and material standards to ensure sustainable infrastructure development in protected areas like Serengeti.
Monastery of Horezu
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2017 —
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Horezu pottery, recognized as part of Romania's immaterial cultural patrimony since 2012, faces limited promotion despite its widespread presence in handicraft stores. This study proposes sustainable strategies to enhance the visibility and appreciation of Horezu pottery while preserving its cultural significance. It highlights the need for comprehensive promotion, including information on geographical context, historical background, artistic evolution, decorative motifs, and local gastronomy traditions. The research aims to balance increased tourism with sustainability, ensuring that the pottery's unique heritage is both accessible and protected. By integrating these elements, the study offers a model for sustainable cultural promotion that can be applied to other UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Ancient Villages of Northern Syria
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2017 —
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A significant discovery of ancient ivory plaques at Arslan Tash, northern Syria, dating to the reign of Assyrian king Tiglath-Pileser III (744–727 BC), provides critical insights into Assyrian expansion and craftsmanship in the early first millennium BC. The ivories, found in a building known as the 'Bâtiment aux ivoires,' depict motifs such as the lady in the window, the suckling cow, and cultic scenes, with one plaque bearing an Aramaic inscription mentioning Hazael, a historical figure associated with a Levantine coalition against Shalmaneser III. The study involved conservation efforts by the Louvre Museum and the Syrian Directorate-General of Antiquities and Museums between 2005 and 2009, which were disrupted by the Syrian civil war, leaving the fate of the Aleppo collection uncertain. This research underscores the importance of preserving Syria's archaeological heritage amid ongoing conflicts.
Mining Area of the Great Copper Mountain in Falun
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2017 —
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A detailed study of the Falun Zn-Pb-Cu-(Au-Ag) pyritic sulfide deposit reveals that hydrothermal alteration patterns and mineralization processes differ significantly from other deposits in Bergslagen. The research identifies a zonation of alteration styles, with distal sericitized and silicified volcanic rocks transitioning to intermediate sericitized and proximal chloritized rocks, enveloping the central massive sulfide bodies. This suggests a structural model where mineralization formed stratigraphically high, surrounded by footwall rocks. The study also highlights the importance of fluid-limestone interaction in trapping metals, contrasting with classic VMS models. Mass-change calculations indicate gains in Mg and Fe, losses in Ca, K, and Na, and variable Si changes, pointing to chloritization, sericitization, and silicification as dominant premetamorphic alteration processes.
Socotra Archipelago
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2017 —
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A new endemic genus, Libinhania, has been identified within the Asteraceae tribe Gnaphalieae from the Socotra archipelago. This discovery challenges previous taxonomic classifications by revealing that the endemic helichrysoids are neither part of Helichrysum nor closely related to it. Phylogenetic analysis using plastid DNA, nuclear ribosomal DNA, and low-copy nuclear DNA loci suggests an ancient allopolyploid origin for Libinhania, with potential ancestors linked to Gnaphalium or Syncarpha mucronata relatives. The study also proposes a taxonomic treatment, including descriptions and a key for the 13 species within this new genus, shedding light on the morphological diversity and evolutionary history of Socotra's unique flora.
Galápagos Islands
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2017 —
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A large-scale mammal eradication campaign on the Galápagos Islands, involving the culling of over 200,000 goats to protect endangered tortoises, revealed that conservation efforts can be ethically complex and contentious. While aimed at saving endemic species, the intervention sparked debates among residents about competing forms of care for nonhuman animals. The study highlights the biological, ecological, and political implications of such actions, challenging the binary logic of success or failure in conservation. It advocates for a more nuanced approach to multispecies coexistence in the Anthropocene.
Selous Game Reserve
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2017 —
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A critical gap in poaching data threatens wildlife conservation efforts in Tanzania, particularly for iconic species like elephants and rhinos. Despite significant government investments in anti-poaching measures—including law enforcement, patrols, and international NGO support—the lack of up-to-date, transparent data hinders effective evaluation and public awareness. Existing datasets, such as those from the Wildlife Division (WD), are outdated (2000–2010) or restricted, while area-specific studies often exclude key metrics like arrests, sentences, or geographic trends. The study urges Tanzanian authorities to compile and release comprehensive poaching data to inform conservation strategies, motivate frontline efforts, and shift public attitudes. It highlights the need for broader, replicable datasets (e.g., court case analyses) to bridge this evidence gap and align with global conservation priorities.
City of Safranbolu
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A kinematic analysis of rock slope instability around Safranbolu reveals significant potential hazards that could threaten the historic city. The study identifies key characteristics of rock masses prone to falling and determines controlled instability types based on slope data. This approach aims to mitigate damage to living spaces by understanding the dynamics of rock fall events in steep, unstable slopes. The findings underscore the importance of proactive measures to safeguard Safranbolu's cultural heritage from geological risks.
Western Tien-Shan
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2017 —
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Two blue-flowered Iris species, <em>Iris albomarginata</em> and <em>I. willmottiana</em>, are confirmed as distinct taxa within the subgenus <em>Scorpiris</em>. The study clarifies their taxonomic boundaries, provides detailed redescriptions, and maps their distributions for the first time. <em>I. albomarginata</em> features uniformly pale-blue flowers and is endemic to the Ugam and Pskem Ranges (Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan), while <em>I. willmottiana</em>, distinguished by blue flowers with white-blotched perianth segments, extends its range to the Karatau, Boralday, and northern Talas Ranges (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan). The latter species is newly documented in Kyrgyzstan. An identification key for these irises is also included, aiding field and taxonomic studies of this UNESCO-listed region's flora.
Tajik National Park (Mountains of the Pamirs)
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A comparative analysis of the Hissar–Alay Mountain Domain and the Pamirs reveals distinct tectonic structures, evolutionary paths, and geological characteristics. These mountain systems, part of different mobile belts (Central Asian and Alpine–Himalayan), exhibit significant differences in morphostructure, tectonic style, kinematic processes, and geological events. Unlike the Hissar–Alay Domain, which is linked to the Ural–Mongolia Belt, the Pamirs belong to the Alpine–Himalayan Belt, showing no substantial geodynamic interaction between them. The study highlights independent formation histories shaped by divergent tectonic forces, magmatic activity, and recent orogeny.
Natural System of Wrangel Island Reserve
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Wrangel Island exhibits distinct tectonic zoning characterized by three zones—Northern, Central, and Southern—each with unique stratigraphic, lithologic, and structural features. A key discovery is the identification of Upper Silurian–Lower Devonian sedimentary rocks in the Northern Zone, previously unknown elsewhere on the island, deformed during the Ellesmere phase of near-latitudinal shortening. The Central Zone's basement comprises Neoproterozoic volcanic rocks, dated to Early Cambrian, contrasting with earlier Carboniferous assumptions, overlain by slightly deformed Carboniferous–Permian rocks. The Southern Zone features a Neoproterozoic metamorphic basement and Devonian–Triassic sedimentary cover, with north-vergent fold-thrust structures formed during the Late Kimmerian deformation phase in the Early Cretaceous. This tectonic zoning provides insights into the island's geological evolution, particularly its complex deformation history.
Biblical Tels - Megiddo, Hazor, Beer Sheba
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The 2016 excavation season at Tel Hazor, conducted by the Selz Foundation Hazor Excavations in Memory of Yigael Yadin, focused on Area M3 under the direction of A. Ben-Tor and S. Bechar. This international effort involved over 50 participants from multiple countries and was supported by various institutions, including the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and the Israel Exploration Society. The excavation aimed to uncover and analyze historical layers, with a particular emphasis on restoration, surveying, and documentation. Key contributions included the work of B. Lhoyer as assistant supervisor, I. Strand for surveying and drafting, and M. Cimadevilla for field photography. The project was housed at Kibbutz Gonen and conducted in collaboration with the National Parks Authority, ensuring a comprehensive and methodical approach to preserving and studying this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
South China Karst
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Hydrologic droughts in South China's karst drainage basins exhibit complex temporal-spatial patterns, characterized by a decline from the 1970s to 1990s followed by an increase from the 2000s to 2010s. This study, analyzing 55 hydrological control basins, reveals that drought intensity and occurrence frequency are highest during these two decades, with significant variability among different basin types. The research employs the Streamflow Drought Index (SDI) to assess drought characteristics, providing insights into the evolving nature of hydrologic droughts in response to climate change.
Sangiran Early Man Site
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Archaeological evidence from the Sangiran Early Man Site reveals post-Pleistocene human activity, challenging the site's traditional perception as solely a prehistoric settlement. Pottery fragments discovered by the Indonesian National Center for Archaeological Research (2013) and the Sangiran Conservation Office (2015) suggest a farming community. Analysis identified a pot and a water-drawing tool, indicating agricultural practices likely dating to the post-Pleistocene period. This study provides critical insights into the transition from early human settlements to more complex societal structures in the region.
Kuk Early Agricultural Site
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Archaeological evidence from Kuk Swamp in Papua New Guinea's highlands reveals the world's earliest known agricultural practices, dating back over 10,000 years. The study demonstrates that high-altitude cultivation began around 9,000 BCE, predating similar developments elsewhere by millennia. Researchers employed a combination of sediment analysis, radiocarbon dating, and artifact examination to uncover taro and banana remains, alongside stone tools and irrigation systems, indicating sophisticated early farming techniques. This discovery reshapes our understanding of the origins of agriculture in New Guinea, highlighting its role as an independent center of domestication.
Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks
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Researchers have identified and described a new species of Aspilia, A. pseudocalea, endemic to the State of Goiás, Brazil, within the UNESCO-listed Cerrado Protected Areas, specifically Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park. This discovery builds upon previous work in the region and highlights its rich biodiversity. The new species is distinguished by its herbaceous habit, linear leaves, and a unique glabrous scar on the cypsela base, setting it apart from closely related A. prostrata. The study provides detailed illustrations, a distribution map, and conservation status assessment, along with a diagnostic key to aid in species identification. This finding underscores the importance of protected areas like Chapada dos Veadeiros in preserving Brazil's unique flora.
National Archeological Park of Tierradentro
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This critical analysis reveals the colonial tensions embedded in narratives about Tierradentro's past, challenging traditional archaeological and anthropological discourses. By applying decolonial thought, the study exposes contradictions and ruptures in historical representations, offering a pluralistic reinterpretation of the region’s history. The research employs a disciplinarily repositioned approach to uncover how colonial frameworks have shaped the understanding of Tierradentro, paving the way for new interpretative pathways that center marginalized voices and perspectives.
Portovenere, Cinque Terre, and the Islands (Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto)
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Terraced landscapes, found globally in steep mountain and coastal areas, represent significant multi-disciplinary values that have gained increasing recognition for their importance. A study on the 'Penisola Sorrentino – Amalfitana' case highlights that mere preservation efforts are insufficient; instead, complex strategies integrating these terraces with other touristic attractions are necessary for effective safeguarding. This insight is drawn from a broader understanding of terraced landscapes, which includes notable UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Italian Cinque Terre and Costiera Amalfitana.
Fossil Hominid Sites of South Africa
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A groundbreaking method combining terrestrial laser scanning and photogrammetry has been successfully employed to create highly accurate 3D models of the Drimolen Makondo palaeontological deposits, a critical fossil-bearing palaeokarst site within South Africa's UNESCO World Heritage Hominid Sites. This innovative approach allows for detailed recording and archival documentation of complex palaeocave systems, integrating seamlessly with total station survey techniques to accurately control excavations and visualize stratigraphic contexts. The study demonstrates that low-cost, time-efficient digital photographic surveys can produce precise 3D models, offering a cost-effective alternative to specialized equipment in remote locations. This method not only enhances the contextualization of excavation data but also supports the recording of sites as part of an evolving landscape, providing a robust solution for preserving and analyzing irreplaceable UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Cologne Cathedral
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Terrestrial laser scanning and photogrammetric imaging systems offer a precise, objective method for documenting complex heritage structures, enabling digital preservation and aiding conservation efforts. The Cologne Cathedral documentation project, a collaboration between Heriot-Watt University, Fresenius University of Applied Sciences, and the Metropolitankapitel der Hohen Domkirche Köln Dombauhütte, demonstrates the effectiveness of these technologies in capturing detailed 3D representations of culturally significant sites like the Gothic masterpiece. This digital record serves as a timeless virtual archive, supporting educational and scholarly use while providing critical data for structural analysis and repair. The project highlights the potential of advanced scanning techniques to revolutionize heritage conservation by offering high-resolution, non-invasive documentation.
Virunga National Park
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2017 —
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Development aid from the European Commission (EC) to Virunga National Park, DR Congo, is found to contribute to 'green militarisation'—a process where conservation efforts are intertwined with paramilitary practices. The EC funds salaries and training for park guards while supporting mixed patrols with the Congolese army, framing violent conflicts around the park as economic rather than political issues. This approach allows policymakers to avoid public scrutiny over the use of aid for (para)military purposes. Unlike prior studies that focus on securitised discourses, this research highlights mundane practices within international organisations that facilitate militarisation in conservation. The findings underscore the need to examine how institutional norms and networks obscure the political dimensions of conservation-related violence.
Land of Frankincense
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2017 —
WHE63D85E3234
A novel restoration approach, termed the 'Triple R' method—recognizable, reversible, and respectful—was successfully applied to preserve the archaeological dry stone city walls of Al-Baleed, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Oman's Land of Frankincense. This innovative technique, adapted to the monsoon-affected climate of the Indian Ocean region, ensured the conservation of the site's original architectural features using locally sourced stones and materials. The method included procedures for consolidating walls, gates, foundations, and sloping surfaces while incorporating simple on-site mechanical tests to assess the safety of restored structures. These efforts facilitated further archaeological excavations, leading to new findings that shed light on the city's evolution from its 9th-century origins over five centuries.
Town of Luang Prabang
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2017 —
WHE718908C1B4
Two festivals in Luang Prabang, Laos—a centuries-old tradition and a recent innovation—reveal that place-making is not static but a dynamic interplay of past, present, and future. The study challenges the separation of 'events' from 'place,' arguing this dichotomy undermines both lived experience and analytical depth. Through fieldwork spanning 2008–2016, including interviews, observations, and participation in Lai Heua Fai (2013) and the Luang Prabang Film Festival (2015), researchers demonstrate how these events spatially construct identity, blending tradition with contemporary markers of place attachment. This work redefines place-making as an ongoing process where 'old' and 'new' are continuously reconstituted, offering new perspectives on heritage site evolution in a globalized world.
Mantua and Sabbioneta
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2017 —
WHEFA049246BE
After the 2012 earthquake, over 40% of Mantua's churches were damaged due to their architectural vulnerability. A five-year survey and restoration project, led by the Diocese of Mantua and Politecnico di Milano, documented 25 churches to guide interventions such as shoring, retrofitting, and restoration. The study identified key factors contributing to damage, including unfamiliarity with seismic-resistant construction practices and poor maintenance, which informed repair techniques like mesh and plaster vault repairs, wood/steel wedge injections, and masonry gap filling. Of the 129 damaged churches, 115 have since been fully restored, providing a model for future seismic risk management in historic structures while prioritizing cultural heritage preservation.
