World Heritage Research: Search

Publications

Showing 20641 – 20660 of 30345 publications

Progress and Problems in the Study of Early Man in Sub-Saharan Africa

Fossil Hominid Sites of South Africa — 2017 — WHE42FF0E4519

A comprehensive analysis of hominid fossils from 14 sub-Saharan African sites, all located on the Great Central Plateau, reveals significant insights into the functional and evolutionary biology of early humans. The study highlights the unique association of marine and terrestrial fauna in these deposits, providing a rich yet challenging dataset for detailed functional and structural analyses. By examining wear patterns, scratch-marks on teeth, inferred vectors of force involved in masticatory thrust, bite patterns, tooth-tooth contact, crushing, and grinding, researchers reconstructed muscle mechanisms operating on the jaws. This work underscores the potential and limitations of these fossil materials, emphasizing the need for specialized studies to fully exploit their scientific value.

Progress in the eradication of the feral cat (Felis catus) and recovery of the native fauna on Socorro Island, Revillagigedo Archipelago, Mexico

Archipiélago de Revillagigedo — 2017 — WHEF32E5A97B4

A significant reduction in the population of feral cats (Felis catus) on Socorro Island, part of Mexico's Revillagigedo Archipelago, has led to a notable recovery of native fauna. The study reports that between 2011 and 2015, 413 feral cats were removed using soft leg-hold and lethal traps, with an accumulated effort of 22,706 trap-nights. This eradication campaign, initiated by Grupo de Ecología y Conservación de Islas (GECI), has resulted in the complete absence of cats from several areas of the island by mid-2016. The removal of feral cats has contributed to the recovery of the endemic Socorro tree lizard (Urosaurus auriculatus) and terrestrial birds, such as the Townsend's shearwater (Puffinus auricularis). The study also highlights the successful eradication of feral sheep in 2012, which led to a rapid recovery of vegetation cover. The research underscores the importance of continued trapping efforts, the use of detection dogs, and night hunting to complete the cat eradication by early 2017.

Promoción en línea de los valores del desarrollo sostenible en los parques nacionales

Tongariro National Park — 2017 — WHE8A0085F93B

A comparative analysis of five renowned UNESCO World Heritage Sites—Yellowstone, Royal, Banff, Tongariro, and Kruger National Parks—reveals a robust integration of information and communication technologies (ICT) and geospatial technologies (GST) to promote sustainable tourism. These parks leverage high-resolution maps, real-time warning systems based on GST, and virtual tours to enhance visitor experiences while supporting conservation efforts. In contrast, the website for Brazil's Itatiaia National Park serves primarily as an informational portal, lacking advanced features that could significantly improve its role in sustainable tourism promotion.

Promotion of ecotourism in the state with special reference to national park and wildlife sanctuaries of sikkim

Khangchendzonga National Park — 2017 — WHE28E4C9CB4D

Ecotourism is emerging as a powerful tool for conservation and sustainable development, particularly in fragile mountain ecosystems. A study on Khangchendzonga National Park in Sikkim highlights its potential to balance tourism growth with ecological preservation, offering economic benefits to local communities while mitigating negative environmental impacts. The research emphasizes the need for strategic ecotourism promotion that leverages Sikkim's unique natural beauty and biodiversity, including its national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. By focusing on responsible tourism practices, this approach aims to protect cultural heritage and aesthetics while fostering community engagement and economic empowerment.

Proposal for the nomination of Lower Globigerina Limestone of the Maltese Islands as a Global Heritage Stone Resource

City of Valletta — 2017 — WHE496B5AC152

The Lower Globigerina Limestone of the Maltese Islands is proposed as a 'Global Heritage Stone Resource' due to its 6000-year history of use in building and sculpture, significant cultural and economic importance, and its role in UNESCO-listed sites such as Valletta and the Prehistoric Megalithic Temples. This soft limestone has been the primary material for architectural heritage across Malta, including fortified cities like Valletta and Mdina, as well as vernacular structures. Its export during the early 20th century further underscores its global significance. The study highlights its continued use in restoration and new construction, cementing its role in the Maltese economy.

Proposing a Digital Information System for the Management and Conservation of the Qhapaq Ñan – Andean Road System

Qhapaq Ñan, Andean Road System — 2017 — WHEE42624172D

A coordinated digital information system is essential for the management and conservation of Qhapaq Ñan, the Andean Road System inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014. This ancient infrastructure network, spanning six countries, facilitated social and economic exchanges before the Inca Empire's expansion and continues to shape cultural traditions. While some Latin American nations have adopted digital tools for its preservation, gaps remain in integrated management. The study advocates for an Integrated Digital Model to address these challenges, ensuring unified protection efforts across the region.

Proposta de sequência didática com o uso de tecnologias digitais para o desenvolvimento do letramento científico

Sítio Roberto Burle Marx — 2017 — WHE2D11C53670

A proposed didactic sequence integrating digital technologies at Sítio Roberto Burle Marx demonstrates potential to foster scientific literacy among students, particularly in non-formal learning environments. The approach combines field research with two technological tools, aiming to encourage critical reflection and democratic engagement with environmental issues. By grounding the sequence in scientific inquiry and leveraging digital resources, it offers a practical pathway for schools to develop scientifically literate learners who can analyze contemporary problems through an informed, analytical lens.

Protected area management and local access to natural resources: a change analysis of the villages neighboring a world heritage site, the Keoladeo National Park, India

Keoladeo National Park — 2017 — WHECD8D6F7883

A significant shift in resource utilization and socio-economic conditions has occurred in the villages neighboring Keoladeo National Park (KNP) over the past two decades. This change reflects reconciliation with KNP's governance strategies and reduced dependency on local natural resources. The study, conducted by Zeeshan et al., compared data from 13 villages using customized questionnaires and government records, revealing notable changes in population, literacy, household fuel use, water levels, agriculture, occupations, and irrigation techniques. Traditional agricultural fields have been repurposed, indicating a broader transformation in the region's socio-economic landscape driven primarily by abrupt shifts in conservation practices within KNP.

Protected area management under climate change: A framework for decision making

Gondwana Rainforests of Australia — 2017 — WHE900615FE2C

Protected areas worldwide face increasing threats from climate change, necessitating adaptive management strategies that go beyond traditional static boundary approaches. This study developed a climate change adaptation framework to guide on-park decision-making for the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Site, focusing on four Queensland national parks: Springbrook, Lamington, Mount Barney, and Main Range. The research identified socio-ecological attributes as critical for effective park planning and management, incorporating Bayesian belief networks to assess climate change impacts on key values such as stream-dwelling frogs, cool temperate forest, and recreational walking access. A workshop with Queensland Parks and Wildlife planners evaluated the feasibility of management strategies, highlighting the need for flexibility, resource efficiency, and sometimes challenging community or agency principles to sustain protected areas under changing climates.

Protecting places

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park — 2017 — WHEED9E4FA7CE

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, initially recognized under natural heritage criteria, successfully transitioned to the new category of 'associative cultural landscape' within UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This shift reflects evolving academic debates on culture and nature, the growing political influence of Indigenous and non-Western perspectives, and the challenges in managing inhabited protected areas. The study highlights how international political processes and intangible dimensions—such as spiritual and symbolic values—shape environmental protection frameworks. By analyzing Uluru-Kata Tjuta's renomination, the research demonstrates the dynamic interplay between physical landscapes and cultural significance, offering a case study for redefining heritage conservation in an era of increasing global collaboration.

Protection status and national socio‐economic context shape land conversion in and around a key transboundary protected area complex in West Africa

W-Arly-Pendjari Complex — 2017 — WHEBE5295E882

A key transboundary protected area complex in West Africa, the W-Arly-Pendjari Complex, shows significant spatial heterogeneity in anthropogenic pressure, with high protection status areas more effective at preventing land conversion. The study, using a novel methodology to compare land cover change across large remote areas, found widespread agricultural expansion outside protected areas over 13 years. Differences in cropland expansion rates between countries suggest a link to rural population growth. These findings highlight the need for comprehensive assessments that leverage remote sensing data to better understand and monitor the ecological outcomes of transboundary conservation efforts.

Protective Structures for the Preservation of Medieval Buildings and their Remains: Case Studies from Monastery Hilandar and Mount Athos

Mount Athos — 2017 — WHE686931B09B

Temporary protective structures for medieval buildings on Mount Athos, including the Hilandar Monastery complex, have been validated through practical application, offering robust recommendations for future preservation efforts. The study evaluates the effectiveness of these structures under real-world conditions, ensuring they align with site management requirements while safeguarding cultural heritage. By analyzing completed structures and their outcomes, researchers provide actionable guidelines for planning, design, and implementation, contributing to the long-term conservation of UNESCO-listed sites like Mount Athos—renowned for its unique monastic complex and restricted access.

Proterozoic 40Ar/39Ar ages from cave deposits of the Malapa, Sterkfontein and Dinaledi fossil sites, Cradle of Humankind, South Africa

Fossil Hominid Sites of South Africa — 2017 — WHE88DA1B8F8F

A groundbreaking study reveals that cave sediments from the Fossil Hominid Sites of South Africa, including Malapa, Sterkfontein, and Dinaledi, contain Proterozoic-aged manganese ooids, peloids, and indurated mudstone fragments. These materials, with apparent ages ranging from 476 ± 13 Ma to 2096 ± 13 Ma, are not directly linked to cave formation processes but provide critical insights into the origin of the sediments. The findings suggest that these components were derived from higher stratigraphic levels of the Transvaal Supergroup, trapped in karst features over time and later washed into the caves. This research challenges previous assumptions about sediment provenance and offers a new perspective on the geological history of these UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Pteromalids (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea: Pteromalidae) of the Karatau Ridge and adjacent territories of the Talas Alatau Ridge in Western Tien Shan

Western Tien-Shan — 2017 — WHE0B9AF58AC1

A comprehensive inventory of pteromalid wasp species (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea: Pteromalidae) from the Karatau and Talas Alatau Ridges in Western Tien Shan is documented for the first time. The study identifies 88 species across 43 genera, with 81 species newly recorded for the Karatau Ridge and 16 for adjacent areas of the Talas Alatau Ridge. This represents a significant expansion of known biodiversity in this region, providing critical data on host associations, habitats, and geographic distributions. The research employs systematic sampling and taxonomic analysis to contribute valuable insights into the ecological diversity of this UNESCO-listed landscape.

Public Awareness on the Importance of Urban Forest Parks in Kota Kinabalu City, Sabah

Kinabalu Park — 2017 — WHE8BCDEF682C

Most urban parks in Kota Kinabalu serve distinct functions, primarily recreation and aesthetics, while some also address soil erosion. A survey of 160 park visitors revealed that 95.6% recognized separate roles for each park, with Prince Philip Public Park and others prioritizing recreation, Tugu Petagas Public Park focusing on aesthetics, and Signal Hill Park aiding in erosion control. Additionally, 76.9% of respondents understood urban forestry as the planning and management of trees in cities, indicating public awareness of this concept.

Pulsar science with data from the Large European Array for Pulsars

Jodrell Bank Observatory — 2017 — WHE7EC593813B

The Large European Array for Pulsars (LEAP) has significantly advanced pulsar science by combining five European radio telescopes—Lovell, Effelsberg, Nançay, Sardinia, and Westerbork—into a single tied-array system. This collaboration has enabled monthly observations of millisecond pulsars (MSPs) with enhanced sensitivity, surpassing the capabilities of individual telescopes. Over four years of LEAP data have been analyzed, contributing to various scientific projects, including timing and imaging studies, such as observations of the galactic center radio magnetar. The project leverages a purpose-built correlator at Jodrell Bank Observatory to process baseband data recorded at 1396 MHz with a bandwidth of 128 MHz, demonstrating its versatility in both timing and imaging modes.

Qhapaq Ñan Itinerario Cultural Inscrito en la Lista del Patrimonio Mundial, Retos y Perspectivas

Qhapaq Ñan, Andean Road System — 2017 — WHE24ED0B9826

The Qhapaq Ñan, an extensive Andean road system spanning six South American countries, was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site through collaborative efforts. This recognition underscores its archaeological and anthropological significance, revealing it as a monumental pre-Columbian network. The study highlights the challenges and opportunities arising from this status, emphasizing the need for robust international management systems that integrate local communities to balance social benefits with conservation goals. Focusing on Peru, the research advocates for a coordinated approach to mitigate negative impacts while fulfilling UNESCO commitments. Practical applications are demonstrated through initiatives like the Huánuco Pampa–Huamachuco project, which implements these strategies effectively.

QUA volume 88 issue 1 Cover and Front matter

Zuojiang Huashan Rock Art Cultural Landscape — 2017 — WHE697B4057D1

A striking landscape of rock art, spanning approximately 8000 m² on steep karst cliffs, was inscribed into UNESCO's World Heritage List in 2016. This site, Mt. Huashan (locally known as 'pay laiz,' meaning a mountain with colorful paintings), features ancient rock paintings dating to the late Eastern Han dynasty (AD 25–220). The artwork is part of a broader cultural landscape comprising 38 sites along the Zuojiang River valley in southern China, where karst and riverine features create a unique setting. This recognition underscores the site's historical significance and its integration with the surrounding natural environment.

Qualidade Física de um Cambissolo Háplico sob Diferentes Usos na Bacia do Córrego dos Micos, Paraty (RJ)

Paraty and Ilha Grande – Culture and Biodiversity — 2017 — WHE3767653CDC

Research reveals significant soil degradation, particularly in cassava plantations within the Córrego dos Micos watershed in Paraty, Brazil, due to frequent burning practices. The study highlights how different land uses impact the physical quality of Haplic Cambisols, emphasizing the role of soil properties like texture, bulk density, and aggregate stability in assessing soil health. By comparing various land uses—including areas affected by burning—the findings underscore the need for integrated field surveys and laboratory analyses to guide sustainable soil management practices. This work provides critical insights for local communities to mitigate erosion and preserve biodiversity in this UNESCO-recognized cultural and biological landscape.

Quantifi cation and Visualization of In Situ Degradation at the World Heritage Site Bryggen in Bergen, Norway

Bryggen — 2017 — WHEEDCAF2ACE8

A significant advancement in the preservation of UNESCO World Heritage Sites has been achieved through the quantification and visualization of in situ degradation at Bryggen, Bergen. This study reveals that the preservation potential of organic archaeological deposits is heavily influenced by hydrological conditions, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of the site's natural environment for effective protective management. By employing multidisciplinary subsurface data and 3D framework modeling, researchers have successfully mapped degradation rates, providing a crucial tool for monitoring and conserving this historic site. The findings underscore the importance of integrating environmental context into archaeological preservation strategies to mitigate ongoing degradation processes.