From drought to deluge: the complex impacts of climate change on earthen heritage

Climate change poses severe and multifaceted threats to earthen heritage sites, including erosion, structural deterioration, and cultural value loss. A systematic study of four vulnerable regions—Sistan, Yazd, Persepolis, and Tchogha Zanbil—reveals that shifting precipitation patterns, extreme weather events, rising temperatures, and water scarcity exacerbate these risks. Socioeconomic factors like limited conservation resources further compound vulnerabilities. The research introduces an interdisciplinary framework to assess vulnerability, integrating physical, social, and cultural dimensions, and emphasizes the need for adaptive strategies, effective governance, and community engagement to mitigate impacts. This approach offers a novel method for evaluating climate change risks in earthen heritage, providing actionable insights for preservation efforts.

Nakhaei Ashtari, M., Della Ventura, G., & Correia, M. (2025). From drought to deluge: the complex impacts of climate change on earthen heritage. Journal of Cultural Heritage Management and Sustainable Development. https://doi.org/10.1108/jchmsd-05-2024-0116