Risk, hazard, and vulnerability for stone biodeterioration due to higher plants: The methodological proposal of a multifactorial index (RHV)

A multifactorial index (RHV) has been developed to assess the risk of stone biodeterioration caused by higher plants, offering a comprehensive method for evaluating threats to stone structures and local conditions of vulnerability. The index associates risks with environmental conditions—such as bioclimate—and plant growth characteristics, while linking vulnerability to edaphic factors (stone typology) and conservation status. Tested across international sites spanning temperate, Mediterranean, sub-Mediterranean xeric, and tropical climates, the RHV demonstrates its utility in analytically assessing risks posed by ruderal plants in cultural heritage contexts like Pasargadae.

Caneva, G., Hosseini, Z., & Bartoli, F. (2023). Risk, hazard, and vulnerability for stone biodeterioration due to higher plants: The methodological proposal of a multifactorial index (RHV). Journal of Cultural Heritage, 62, 217–229. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.culher.2023.05.032