Sacred City of Kandy
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2010 —
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Research reveals distinct termite assemblages between natural and secondary forests in the Hantane hills, Sri Lanka. While nine species were recorded in secondary forest, only two—Ceylonitermellus hantanae and Dicuspiditermes incola—were exclusive to natural forest at higher elevations. Natural forest termites were exclusively true soil feeders, whereas secondary forest species were predominantly wood feeders, including eight fungus-growing types. The study highlights how elevation, climate, vegetation, ground cover, and human interference shape these differences, contributing to our understanding of biodiversity in fragmented tropical ecosystems.
Temple of Heaven: an Imperial Sacrificial Altar in Beijing
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2010 —
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Historical cities, including those in ancient Greece and China, often neglected green spaces in central areas, focusing instead on urban development without systematic planning for vegetation. However, Beijing during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) stands out as an exception, incorporating significant green infrastructure such as Jingshan Hill and the Temple of Heaven—spanning 272 hectares with ten thousand trees—to align with Fengshui principles. While water bodies like the Three Front Seas and Three Rear Seas dominated these spaces for practical purposes (e.g., flood control), they also served as early forms of public green areas. The study highlights that green space systems, from isolated parks to interconnected networks like greenways, have evolved in response to urbanization and environmental challenges. Modern research emphasizes their role in addressing climate change, ecological crises, and urban sprawl through integrated planning. This paper introduces the 'distributed green land system' as a scalable solution for contemporary urban green infrastructure.
Tongariro National Park
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2010 —
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New Zealand pipits (Anthus n. novaeseelandiae) exhibit seasonal and habitat-specific distribution patterns within Tongariro National Park's volcanic plateau, with consistent presence at certain sites year-round. Surveys conducted between 1998 and 2009 revealed that pipits were present at Lake Te Whaiau, Mangatepopo Road, Waipakihi Road, and the Erua wetland throughout both winter and summer. Seasonal variations in habitat use were observed, particularly at Lake Te Whaiau, where flock sizes peaked at an average of 9.7 birds during summer. Maximum roadside counts outside the flocking period reached 1.13 pipits per kilometer along Waipakihi Road, with summer flock sizes averaging 6.0 birds (range: 2–18). This study highlights the pipit's adaptability to diverse volcanic habitats and underscores the importance of targeted conservation efforts in such dynamic environments.
Quanzhou: Emporium of the World in Song-Yuan China
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2010 —
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Research reveals that sediments in the Quanzhou Bay estuary wetland are moderately to heavily contaminated with zinc (Zn) and lead (Pb), while copper (Cu) contamination is less severe. The study, using sequential extraction procedures, found that Zn and Pb primarily reside in reducible fractions, indicating potential bioavailability, whereas Cu is more strongly retained in oxidizable fractions. Among the plant species studied, Alternanthera philoxeroides demonstrated the highest accumulation of heavy metals, while Phragmites communis showed strong tolerance and transfer capabilities for Zn and Pb. Aegiceras corniculatum, however, appears resistant to contamination, challenging its use as an indicator species. The findings underscore the need for local industries to adopt cleaner production technologies to mitigate pollutant emissions and foster sustainable development.
Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks
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2010 —
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A two-year study in Pindari Valley, Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, revealed distinct distribution patterns and seasonal variations in mountain ungulate populations. Blue sheep (Pseudois nayaur) and Himalayan tahr (Hemitragus jemlahicus) were predominantly found in alpine regions, with blue sheep extending up to 5,500 meters. Encounter rates for blue sheep averaged 4.13 per hour, while Himalayan tahr had a lower rate of 1.38 per hour. Himalayan musk deer (Moschus chrysogaster) were more common in the krummholtz region, with an encounter rate of 0.26 per kilometer. Relative density estimates indicated blue sheep at 0.35 individuals per square kilometer and Himalayan tahr at 1.38 individuals per square kilometer. The study also identified eastern, southeastern, and western mountain slopes as preferred habitats for these ungulates, with slope preferences varying among species. Livestock grazing and anthropogenic pressures were highlighted as significant threats to their conservation in the region.
Tasmanian Wilderness
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2010 —
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A study reveals that the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area (TWWHA) remains largely free of the amphibian chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), with only 3% of surveyed sites testing positive, despite providing optimal conditions for the pathogen. In contrast, surrounding areas with human disturbance—characterized by gravel roads, forests, and altitudes under 1000 meters—showed a 52% infection rate. The research suggests anthropogenic activities may facilitate Bd spread, while walking tracks in remote regions were strongly associated with its absence. These findings imply that the TWWHA’s inaccessible nature and lack of Bd could make disease control feasible, given that Tasmanian frogs reproduce in ponds rather than streams.
Taï National Park
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2010 —
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Taï National Park (TNP) in Côte d’Ivoire, a critical remnant of West African primary forest, harbors remarkable botanical diversity, particularly in its understudied southern region. A recent inventory identified 900 plant species across 116 families, with Rubiaceae, Euphorbiaceae, and Caesalpiniaceae dominating. Among these, 175 are endemic to West African forests, 11 to Ivorian forests, and 61 are 'sassandrian'—a rare subset of species found in the region's dry forests. The study highlights that tree species with diameters ≥10 cm, such as <em>Hymenostegia afzelii</em> and <em>Strombosia pustulata</em>, exhibit high importance value indices (IVI) and frequency of individual values (FIV), underscoring their ecological significance. These findings confirm TNP's status as a biodiversity hotspot within the Guinean Forests of West Africa, emphasizing its conservation priority due to the presence of endemic, rare, and threatened species.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
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2010 —
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A taxonomic review of the beetle genus <em>Leptusa</em> in Great Smoky Mountains National Park identifies ten species, including four newly described: <em>L. (Adoxopisalia) pseudosmokyiensis</em>, <em>L. (A.) stocksi</em>, <em>L. (Dysleptusa) gimmeli</em>, and <em>L. (Eucryptusa) ferroi</em>. The study also documents the previously unknown female of <em>L. (D.) pusio</em>, providing detailed illustrations and diagnostic keys for 16 of the 18 eastern U.S. species. This research highlights the 'Overlooked Syndrome,' where undescribed species persist in well-studied regions, emphasizing the need for continued taxonomic exploration even in extensively documented areas.
The Archaeological Heritage of Niah National Park’s Caves Complex
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2010 —
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A comprehensive assessment of bat diversity in two protected limestone areas in Sarawak, Malaysia—Niah National Park and Wind Cave Nature Reserve—revealed 36 species across 10 families, with nine species recorded for the first time. The study, conducted from November 2007 to April 2009 using mist nets and harp traps (572 trap-nights), identified <em>Penthetor lucasi</em>, <em>Hipposideros cervinus</em>, and <em>Cynopterus brachyotis</em> as the most abundant species. Notably, seven of the nine new records were from Niah National Park, including <em>Hipposideros ater</em> and <em>Kerivoula hardwickii</em>. This research provides critical baseline data for the conservation and management of cave ecosystems in Sarawak, highlighting the importance of these areas for bat biodiversity.
Sinharaja Forest Reserve
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2010 —
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Eastern Sinharaja, a 30km² moist montane tropical forest within the Rakwana mountain range, faces severe threats to its critically endangered endemic herpetofauna, including seven anuran amphibians and four reptiles. Human disturbances such as deforestation for cardamom and tea cultivation, illegal gem mining, timber felling, and pesticide use have drastically reduced their populations. Immediate conservation actions are critical, emphasizing habitat restoration with native species, establishment of buffer zones, and promoting agro-forestry practices to mitigate human impacts and sustain viable herpetofauna populations.
Lord Howe Island Group
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2010 —
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A groundbreaking study using DNA barcoding has unveiled approximately 20 cryptic species of red algae within the order Rhodymeniales, significantly surpassing the previously recognized eight species. This research, conducted on southern Australian samples including those from Lord Howe Island Group, identified multiple new genera and species, such as Pseudohalopeltis tasmanensis and Microphyllum robustum, while also resurrecting the genus Halopeltis J.G. Agardh with six newly assigned species. The study employed phylogenetic analysis to assign genetic species groups to their respective genera based on molecular and anatomical signatures. Notably, samples from Lord Howe Island, initially field-identified as Rhodymenia or Fauchea spp., were reclassified, highlighting the importance of DNA barcoding in uncovering hidden biodiversity within UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Lord Howe Island Group.
Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek
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2010 —
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A significant portion of population fluctuations in small rodents within boreal forest ecosystems can be attributed to variations in berry crops, mushrooms, and tree seeds. This study, conducted over 13 years (1997–2009) in the Kluane Lake region of southwestern Yukon, Canada, found that 78–98% of the variation in the abundance of red-backed voles, deer mice, and field voles could be explained by indices of berry crops and mushrooms from the previous summer. Specifically, berries of Empetrum nigrum were critical for red-backed vole populations, while Arctostaphylos uva-ursi, A. rubra, and mushrooms were key predictors for deer mice. Spruce seed crops did not significantly correlate with rodent densities or changes in density. The study supports the bottom-up hypothesis, suggesting that overwinter survival of rodents is closely tied to the availability of food resources from the previous year.
Chitwan National Park
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2010 —
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A population of critically endangered gharials (Gavialis gangeticus) in Chitwan National Park, Nepal, has been stabilized through a long-term reintroduction program initiated in 1981. Despite fluctuations between 34 and 38 individuals over two years (2003–2004), the program has prevented further decline. Gharials prefer large sand banks for basking, which are threatened by dams, sand mining, grazing, fishing, drift nets, and water pollution. The study highlights the need for stricter protection of basking sites, prohibition of fishing in key zones, and long-term community involvement to ensure survival. These findings underscore the importance of targeted conservation measures to mitigate threats and sustain gharial populations.
Bikini Atoll Nuclear Test Site
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2010 —
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A groundbreaking study quantifies the annual external radiation doses received by Marshall Islanders from fallout of 65 atmospheric nuclear tests conducted at Bikini and Enewetak Atolls between 1946 and 1958. For the first time, researchers estimated doses for inhabitants across all 23 populated atolls, using test-specific survey data, cesium-137 deposition models, and fallout timing records. These findings, combined with internal irradiation estimates from companion studies, provide critical data to assess cancer risks in the Marshallese population due to nuclear testing exposure.
Historic City of Meknes
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2010 —
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A study of the departure of Moroccan Jews in the 1950s and 1960s reveals that both Jewish and Muslim narratives reflect deep, unresolved trauma. While Muslims often depicted Jews as 'fearful' or 'weak,' this perception shifted dramatically during the Six-Day War, when Jews were seen as 'courageous' and 'strong.' This transformation disrupted Muslim societal norms, which associated emigration with a lack of virility. The research, based on oral histories from both communities, shows that the memory of these events remains fragmented and sensitive, with Muslims suppressing recollections of two young Jews murdered in 1967 in Meknes. The study argues that the departure of a historic component of Moroccan society has left an enduring emotional wound, with Jewish narratives oscillating between fear and nostalgia.
Old City of Dubrovnik
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2010 —
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Journalistic reports during the 1991 siege of Dubrovnik by the Yugoslav National Army often exaggerated the extent of damage to the Old City, aiming to provoke international intervention for cultural protection. This study reveals how British correspondents and editors framed these narratives, using rhetorical analysis to assess their impact on public memory and historical accounts. By combining interview data from key figures like Alex Russell and Max Hastings with documentary press analysis, the research sheds light on Western media's role in shaping perceptions of the Yugoslav wars and humanitarian intervention.
The Sundarbans
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2010 —
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Eutrophication poses a significant threat to the Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest and only tiger habitat. A 2010 study revealed that high nutrient levels, particularly during winter, led to eutrophic conditions (Chlorophyll-a ≥10 μg/L), which negatively impacted phytoplankton biomass and species diversity. The research identified diatoms as the dominant phytoplankton group, with 46 taxa recorded across six groups. Key findings included the presence of bio-indicator species such as Polykrikos schwartzil and Dinophysis norvegica, signaling moderately polluted water quality. The study also highlighted that high salinity levels (21.2PSU) in May favored more resilient phytoplankton species. These insights underscore the deteriorating marine status of the Sundarban estuary, which threatens the ecology of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and raises concerns about the sustainability of its mangroves.
Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks
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2010 —
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Research reveals that earthen enclosures, typically associated with the Early Woodland Adena complex and Middle Woodland Hopewell Interaction Sphere in the eastern U.S., also extend westward to Iowa. At least five such enclosures in eastern Iowa exhibit characteristics akin to those of Adena and Hopewell, including size, non-defensive function, and association with ritual areas like burial mounds. This suggests that while the Mississippi River valley may have marked the western limit of these ceremonial structures, their cultural significance likely extended more broadly across the region.
Chaco Culture
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2010 —
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A groundbreaking discovery at Chaco Culture National Historical Park reveals the presence of early maize cultivation dating back to 3940–2450 years ago, predating previously documented Puebloan agricultural practices. Analysis of prehistoric woodrat middens in sandstone cliff fractures uncovered abundant Zea mays pollen grains, significantly larger than modern varieties, suggesting multiple maize varieties were cultivated. The study also highlights a discrepancy between the radiocarbon ages of pollen and plant macrofossils within the same middens, emphasizing the need for independent dating of pollen assemblages to accurately reconstruct ancient agricultural landscapes.
Agra Fort
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2010 —
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Early modern South Asia witnessed significant urban transformation under the rule of Mughal emperors Akbar and Shah Jahan, marking the third great Islamic dynasty. Shah Jahan, renowned as a patron of the arts, commissioned iconic structures including the Red Forts in Agra, Lahore, and Delhi, as well as the Taj Mahal—a masterpiece built between 1632 and 1643 to honor his wife Mumtaz Mahal. These architectural marvels, alongside the first mosque in northern India, reflect the cultural and artistic flourishing of the period. The study highlights how these dynasties reshaped South Asian cities, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to define their heritage.
Dholavira: a Harappan City
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2010 —
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Research reveals that ancient civilizations along the Indus River Valley, including Harappan sites like Dholavira, were significantly impacted by earthquakes linked to tectonic plate collisions. The study highlights seismoarchaeological indicators such as repeated reconstructions, direct faulting, river damming due to seismic uplift, and coastal elevation changes, which provide evidence of past earthquake effects. By analyzing historical large-magnitude events in the region, the research emphasizes the need for future investigations to integrate seismological and tectonic perspectives rather than relying on serendipity.
New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands
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2010 —
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Southern Giant Petrels (Macronectes giganteus) exhibit significant ecogeographical variation across their range, from New Zealand to the Sub-Antarctic and Antarctic regions. Six distinct breeding provinces were identified, confirming two recognized subspecies: M. g. giganteus and M. g. solanderi. The latter is characterized by smaller body parts compared to the former. Morphological differences include variations in bill depth and tarsus length, with birds from Gough Island displaying the longest tarsi. Additionally, an east-to-west cline shows a gradual decrease in body size, consistent with Allen’s rule. While M. g. giganteus exhibits morphological polymorphism, M. g. solanderi shows less biometric variability, suggesting potential for taxonomic differentiation. This study underscores the need for further morphometric and genetic research to clarify the taxon's classification.
Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek
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2010 —
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A stable population of approximately 200 Dall sheep (Ovis dalli dalli) on Sheep Mountain, Kluane National Park, Yukon Territory, Canada, was observed from 1969 to 1973. The study revealed detailed population dynamics, including natality and mortality rates, sex ratios, and productivity, while also analyzing the sheep's range use patterns and forage selection across different biogeoclimatic zones. Environmental variables such as temperature, wind, and snow depth were found to influence sheep behavior. A population structure model was developed, providing valuable insights for sustainable management practices, including calculating allowable harvests. The research combined geographical, geological, glaciological, and phytosociological data with detailed demographic analysis.
iSimangaliso Wetland Park – Maputo National Park
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2010 —
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The Mfolozi–Msunduzi estuarine system, part of the iSimangaliso Wetland Parkhas undergone significant anthropogenic changes that separated it from the St Lucia Estuary. This study reveals the current ecological status of key faunal groups (zooplankton, benthos, and fish) in this system, which has faced severe stress due to decreased rainfall and prolonged closure of the St Lucia mouth. The research highlights potential management strategies for reconnecting the systems, including re-establishing sediment-filtering swamps and constructing levees, while expressing concerns about potential adverse effects. This is one of the first comprehensive studies on this estuarine system, providing critical insights for its conservation and management.
Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks
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2010 —
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The Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site is celebrated for its ecological diversity and natural wonders, with notable features such as Cave and Basin, Chaba Imne (lake), and the region's unique climate. This study highlights the intricate relationships between geological formations, aquatic ecosystems, and climatic conditions that define the area's biodiversity. The research approach integrates field observations, ecological mapping, and climate analysis to provide a comprehensive understanding of the site's environmental dynamics. Emphasis is placed on the interplay between physical landscapes—such as cave systems—and their biological significance, offering insights into the conservation of this globally significant region.
Angkor
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2010 —
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Contemporary economic development in Siem Reap, Cambodia, remains influenced by external perspectives on the meaning of Angkor Wat, despite its historical significance spanning ancient Khmer, colonial, and postcolonial eras. The study introduces a framework rooted in Roland Barthes' and Jean Baudrillard's theories to analyze four sources of value—use, exchange, symbol, and myth—that shape the site's valuation. It reveals how these values have evolved over time but persistently impact local development strategies. The research argues for a shift toward locally informed perspectives to redefine Angkor's role in economic planning, moving beyond legacy narratives.
Alto Douro Wine Region
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2010 —
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A museum's cultural value within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Alto Douro Wine Region is positively influenced by visitors' educational level and gender, while negatively affected by travel costs. This insight emerged from applying the travel cost method—a non-market valuation technique—to analyze demand for the Museum of Lamego. Researchers used a Poisson model to quantify these relationships, revealing that higher education and female visitors are more likely to engage with cultural heritage, whereas travel expenses deter participation. The study underscores the importance of indirect economic valuation methods in assessing intangible assets like museums, which lack market transactions but drive territorial development through spillover effects.
The Causses and the Cévennes, Mediterranean agro-pastoral Cultural Landscape
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2010 —
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A hidden economy thrived beneath the karst landscapes of the Grands Causses during the late Neolithic, revealing sophisticated underground resource exploitation. This study identifies a network of subterranean activities—water sourcing, clay and calcite extraction—that sustained human populations despite geographical constraints. Geomorphological analysis demonstrates how these practices were adapted to local conditions, yet their cultural significance remains elusive due to the region's complex socio-cultural context. The research challenges traditional chronocultural frameworks by highlighting the dynamic interplay between subsistence needs and landscape use in a period marked by cultural diversity.
Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks
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2010 —
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Ecotourism can serve as a means for environmental justice, providing local communities with both economic opportunities and a platform to challenge exclusionary practices within mainstream environmental movements. This study demonstrates that by framing their struggles through ecotourism discourse, local people in the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve were able to engage with broader environmental efforts while addressing social injustices. The research employs discourse analysis and examines the politics of scale to argue for an expanded notion of environmental justice that accounts for global resource rights movements. It highlights how a focus on social justice within ecotourism can offer viable livelihoods while critiquing biocentric biases in conservation practices.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
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2010 —
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Ecotourism, often hailed as a tool for conservation and local development, may instead perpetuate poverty and dependency in nearby communities. A study analyzing gorilla tourism's impact on rural villagers adjacent to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda, reveals that the commodification of wilderness for foreign visitors shifts control to international organizations, creating new forms of vulnerability rather than alleviating hardship. Through a year of ethnographic fieldwork, the research exposes how ecotourism's 'new' relations between people and parks often reinforce existing power imbalances.
Curonian Spit
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2010 —
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A study on the Curonian Spit, Lithuania, reveals that Pinus mugo, a non-native tree species thriving in harsh coastal dunes, forms ectomycorrhizal (ECM) associations with a low but consistent fungal diversity. Molecular analysis identified 12 ECM taxa across three study sites, with Cenococcum geophilum dominating both seedlings and mature trees, though more abundantly on seedlings. Shannon's diversity indices indicated slightly higher diversity in mature trees. While mycorrhizal communities were similar across sites, subtle differences emerged between seedlings and mature trees. The study also highlighted discrepancies between below-ground ECM diversity and aboveground fruiting body surveys, emphasizing the need for comprehensive sampling methods to accurately assess fungal symbionts. These findings suggest P. mugo's adaptability in distinct habitats, supported by a stable suite of ECM symbionts that facilitate growth and natural regeneration.
Getbol, Korean Tidal Flats
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2010 —
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Seawater temperature near macrotidal flats exhibits distinct semidiurnal variations, with ranges of 2–4°C during clear spring days. A developed model verified that heat exchange between shallow seawater zones and tidal flats significantly alters seawater temperature, regardless of season. Heat content changes can reach up to 581 J m−3 s−1 (0.5°C h−1). The study found maximum heat gain from the tidal flat (835 W m−2) in June 2004 and minimum heat loss to it (316 W m−2) in February 2004, highlighting seasonal dynamics of thermal energy exchange in these ecosystems.
Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks
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2010 —
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Scat-detection dogs proved highly effective in identifying the presence of five threatened mammal species—maned wolves, pumas, jaguars, giant anteaters, and giant armadillos—in the tropical savanna landscape surrounding Emas National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site candidate. The study demonstrated that these canines could reliably detect scat across different seasons, years, and survey team compositions, with detection probabilities varying by species but remaining consistent in methodology. Notably, maned wolves showed the highest occurrence probability (0.91), while jaguars were least detected (0.14), primarily due to their preference for forested areas within the park. The research also revealed that giant armadillos thrived in open grasslands inside the park but shifted to riparian woodlands in agricultural zones. This approach offers a scalable, non-invasive tool for monitoring wide-ranging species even in fragmented habitats, with potential applications beyond the Cerrado ecosystem.
Wet Tropics of Queensland
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2010 —
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A severe frost event on the Atherton Tablelands, Queensland, Australia, in 2007 revealed significant variation in frost resistance among riparian rainforest species, with some species showing high foliage retention while others suffered extensive damage. The study found that species from riparian habitats and a conifer were particularly frost-resistant, while deciduous species may survive frost by shedding leaves. Plant height above ground level had only a weak correlation to frost impacts, but plants under shelterbelts of mature trees experienced significantly less damage than unsheltered conspecifics. These findings suggest that forest shelter can be used as an effective mitigation strategy for frost impacts in restoration efforts, guiding the development of resilient ecological communities in frost-prone areas.
St Kilda
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2010 —
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Artificial lights at St Kilda attract petrels, particularly when moonlight is scarce, but deliberate light reduction measures significantly decrease this attraction and its negative impacts. The study found that while reductions in artificial lighting effectively lowered the number of Leach's Storm-petrels drawn to lights, their effect on Manx Shearwaters was less pronounced. Mortality rates were extremely low, with only juveniles affected, primarily after nights with minimal moonlight. Although the overall numbers of petrels attracted were small compared to breeding populations, light reduction measures remained beneficial in preventing disorientation and grounding during fledging periods. This phenomenon is rare in other UK breeding areas, highlighting St Kilda's unique vulnerability.
Mount Wuyi
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2010 —
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Litter decomposition rates vary significantly along elevation gradients, influenced by microclimate conditions and litter type. The study found that leaf litter from <em>Castanopsis carlesii</em> decomposed faster than <em>Pinus taiwanensis</em> at lower elevations (evergreen broadleaf forest, coniferous forest, and dwarf forest), where warm and humid conditions favor decomposer activity. However, decomposition rates were similar for both species in alpine meadows, suggesting microclimate plays a crucial role. Restricting access to detritivores via mesh bags also slowed decomposition, highlighting the importance of soil fauna in litter breakdown. These findings underscore how temperature, moisture, and ecosystem structure interact to regulate decomposition processes in UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Mount Wuyi.
Surtsey
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2010 —
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Seagull colonization on Surtsey, Iceland, dramatically enhances ecosystem respiration and vegetation development. The study found that gull nests significantly increase soil nitrogen—primarily deposited by the birds—which boosts ecosystem activity to levels comparable to drained wetlands or agricultural fields in Iceland. Within the gull colony, ecosystem respiration was 59 times higher than outside it, with a temperature sensitivity (Q10 value) of 5.3. These effects were linked to increased soil carbon and nitrogen, reduced pH, and cooler soil temperatures. The research highlights how animal-mediated resource transfer can accelerate ecosystem formation on volcanic islands.
Selous Game Reserve
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2010 —
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A study analyzing trophy hunting impacts on lion and leopard populations in Tanzania reveals that unsustainable harvest rates are driving declines, particularly in high-hunting regions. Lion harvests dropped by 50% between 1996 and 2008, with hunting intensity being the sole significant factor affecting population trends. Leopard harvests, though more stable, also declined in areas with the highest initial removals. Researchers recommend strict quotas—0.5 lions and 1 leopard per 1,000 km² for most regions, except the Selous Game Reserve, where higher limits (1 lion and 3 leopards) are suggested due to its unique conditions. The findings highlight the need for sustainable management strategies amid growing human-wildlife conflict and habitat loss.
Birka and Hovgården
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2010 —
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A ground-penetrating radar (GPR) array system demonstrated the capability to conduct high-resolution, large-scale archaeological surveys at unprecedented speed and resolution. The true three-dimensional MIRA system surveyed 1 hectare or more per day with an 8 cm cross-line spacing, revealing fine details such as postholes of only 25 cm diameter at Birka, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in Sweden. This pilot study, conducted in collaboration with the Swedish National Heritage Board, showcased the potential of advanced GPR technology for efficient and detailed archaeological prospection at complex Scandinavian sites.
City of Potosí
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2010 —
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The Cerro de Potosí, revered as the most significant sanctuary of its region, was hidden from Spanish colonizers due to its sacred status dedicated to the deity Pachacámac. Historical testimonies, including those by Arzans de Orsúa y Vela (1736) and traditions near the Salar de Uyuni, affirm that this 'Apu' or mountain lord was associated with Pachacámac, a god of the subterranean world. Archaeological evidence, such as a 16th-century sacrifice at Lake Titicaca, further supports the presence of this deity in the Collasuyo region. The study highlights how the Inca later introduced solar worship, while Spanish colonizers reinterpreted the Cerro as an embodiment of the Virgin Mary, linking it to Pachamama or Mother Earth.
Archaeological Site of Atapuerca
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2010 —
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A detailed analysis of lithic collections from northern Spain's Atapuerca sites reveals significant variability in early human technical processes over long periods, challenging traditional understandings of Paleolithic behavior. The study examines raw material collection and stone quality influences on tool production, using experimental archaeology to provide new perspectives on ancient assemblages. By focusing on a small geographic area—including Sierra de Atapuerca, La Maya, El Basalito, San Quirce, and Ambrona—the research demonstrates how local conditions shaped human adaptation during the first and second phases of European occupation. This work contributes to a deeper understanding of behavioral variability in early southern European populations.
Sewell Mining Town
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2010 —
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Sewell, Chile, exemplifies the innovative 'platform frame' construction system, which revolutionized urban planning and architecture for its time. This study highlights how the platform frame, characterized by a modular grid of reinforced concrete platforms, enabled efficient land use and structural stability in a challenging mountainous terrain. Researchers analyzed Sewell's architectural design, revealing its adaptability to steep slopes and seismic conditions, while also assessing its historical significance as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The approach involved detailed examination of the site's construction techniques, urban layout, and comparison with contemporary building practices. The findings underscore the platform frame's enduring influence on modern urban development.
Routes of Santiago de Compostela: Camino Francés and Routes of Northern Spain
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2010 —
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Tourism, particularly pilgrimage tourism along the Camino de Santiago Francés, has been identified as a significant driver for rural socio-economic development. This study demonstrates that the Camino Francés, spanning 14 municipalities in Galicia (Spain), revitalized local economies between 1991 and 2005 by attracting visitors who boosted commercial activity, market share, and demographic stability. Key indicators—such as population movement, commercial licenses, and tourism indices—showed positive trends linked to pilgrimage-related tourism. The research suggests that leveraging cultural heritage can mitigate rural decline, offering a model for sustainable development in similar regions.
Byblos
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2010 —
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Rulers of Byblos in the Middle Bronze Age adopted Egyptianized language, administrative titles, and religious traits as elite emulation practices to differentiate themselves from local peers and gain prestige through patronage bonds with Egypt. These relationships, rooted in early Old Kingdom interactions, were sustained by the exchange of high-value goods. The study argues that such cultural borrowing was a strategic move to align with Egypt's esteemed elite, reinforcing Byblos' status in the northern Levant and Euphrates region.
Sewell Mining Town
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2010 —
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Sewell, a unique residential-industrial settlement nestled in the mountains, stands out for its innovative urban design and high-density living. This study highlights Sewell's singularity, achieved through a harmonious integration of multi-storied buildings that seamlessly blend housing and industry on terraced hillside terrain. The settlement's distinctive image, characterized by its compact layout and functional harmony, underscores its potential significance as a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage List recognition. The research approach involves an analysis of Sewell's urban planning and architectural features, emphasizing its historical and cultural value.
Anticosti
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2010 —
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A new species of endobiotic cornulitid, Cornulites celatus n. sp., has been discovered within Upper Ordovician tabulate corals and stromatoporoids from Anticosti Island, Quebec. This finding extends the known stratigraphic range of cornulitids in commensal relationships with these organisms back to the Upper Ordovician, previously thought to begin in the Silurian period. The study also reveals a more limited paleoenvironmental distribution for C. celatus compared to its principal coral host, Propora conferta, suggesting environmental specificity in their association. Growth interference patterns indicate a commensal relationship between the endobiotic cornulitid and its hosts, including Paleofavositessp., Acidolites arctatus, A. compactus, and Ecclimadictyonsp. The diagnosis of Cornulites is emended to include forms with a distinctive two-layered shell wall, characterized by an outer layer of prismatic calcite.
Brasilia
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2010 —
WHEBE9B60AF80
A pioneering energy efficiency code for commercial, public, and service buildings was introduced in Brazil in 2009, marking the first labeled building in Brasilia. This study reveals that prescriptive criteria and energy performance simulations yielded consistent results, though it also highlighted the need for enhanced simulation capabilities to address cases where prescriptive methods fall short. The research, conducted by the Laboratory of Environmental Comfort and Energy Efficiency (LACAM) at the University of Brasília, underscores the importance of rapid implementation and expertise development to facilitate the widespread adoption of energy efficiency standards in Brazil.
Takht-e Soleyman
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2010 —
WHE92ECF527A2
A significant portion of tourists visiting Takht-e Soleyman, a UNESCO-listed sacred site in Iran, reported experiencing vital energy during their visits. This finding stems from a 2008 survey involving 140 participants, where 111 confirmed sensing energy at the site, known for its spiritual significance since the Sassanid era (226-650 AD). The study highlights that these 'energy tourists' seek healing and environmental protection, suggesting potential benefits for global peace and sustainability. The research used questionnaires to gather detailed accounts of tourist experiences, emphasizing the site's role in fostering a peaceful and environmentally conscious approach to tourism.
Sagarmatha National Park
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2010 —
WHEF8EC64C89E
A critical decline of 38% in forest biomass within Sagarmatha National Park and Buffer Zone (SNPBZ), Nepal, from 1992 to 2008 has been attributed to rising fuelwood demand driven by tourism growth. This trend threatens the preservation of current forest conditions unless 75% of fuelwood is replaced with alternative energy sources. The study employed a participatory modeling framework to simulate management scenarios, revealing that reducing fuelwood use by 75% and dung use by 80% could lower indoor carbon monoxide (CO) concentrations to WHO-recommended limits. This research underscores the urgent need for adaptive management strategies to mitigate environmental degradation and health risks in this remote mountain region.
Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island
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2010 —
WHE9AA1083E7E
Rivers on Ishigaki Island, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Japan's Ryukyu Archipelago, exhibit exceptionally high alkalinity due to enhanced carbonate dissolution driven by soil-originated CO₂. This results in a significant riverine carbon flux with implications for climate regulation and ocean acidification buffering. A comparative hydrogeochemical study on Ishigaki Island (carbonate-dominated) and Iriomote Island (aluminosilicate-dominated) revealed that Ishigaki's rivers have alkalinity levels surpassing global averages, such as those of the Saint Lawrence and Mississippi rivers. This high inorganic carbon input alters the ratio of carbon to nutrients in river water, potentially making coastal seas a source of atmospheric CO₂. The study highlights the critical role of geological characteristics in shaping riverine carbon dynamics and their broader environmental impacts.
