Ruderality and refugia in the ruins: heritage, alienation, and post-industrial naturecultures in Northwest Wales

This study reveals that the ruderal ecologies thriving in the abandoned Glyn Rhonwy slate quarry in Northwest Wales possess outstanding ecological, educational, and aesthetic value, challenging UNESCO's traditional nature/culture binary framework. By integrating landscape survey data with policy analysis, inspired by feminist posthumanism, it demonstrates that these 'weeds and waste' landscapes—often dismissed as insignificant—are critical biodiversity oases. The research argues for their recognition in global heritage policy, offering a new perspective on the value of post-industrial naturecultures.

Spiwak, A. D. (2024). Ruderality and refugia in the ruins: heritage, alienation, and post-industrial naturecultures in Northwest Wales. Landscape Research, 50(2), 336–350. https://doi.org/10.1080/01426397.2024.2413009