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Showing 241 – 260 of 15962 publications

Cleaning Methods for Historic Building Facades: A Systematic Review and Decision-Making Framework

Golestan Palace — 2026 — WHEFA745902A6

No single cleaning method universally suits historic building facades; effective intervention demands material-specific and climate-specific diagnostics. A systematic review of 78 peer-reviewed studies (1990–2025) across six linguistic traditions introduces a multi-criteria decision-making framework that operationalizes the principle of minimum intervention, emphasizing necessity assessment, substrate characterization, contaminant diagnosis, and post-intervention monitoring. The study highlights femtosecond laser cleaning, biocleaning, and nanostructured controlled-release gels as promising emerging technologies for sensitive materials in arid and semi-arid climates, where moisture ingress and salt crystallization pose significant risks. Applied to Golestan Palace—a UNESCO World Heritage Site with diverse facades—this approach underscores the need for pollutant control at source, targeted advanced cleaning, and intelligent monitoring to ensure sustainable conservation.

Climate and Water Monitoring at Carlsbad Caverns National Park: Water Year 2024

Carlsbad Caverns National Park — 2026 — WHEF7FFB4A3C8

In the third consecutive year of below-average rainfall, Carlsbad Caverns National Park's climate and water monitoring for Water Year 2024 revealed significant drought conditions, with temperatures also above normal. Notably, Oak Spring experienced a dramatic reduction in its springbrook length and complete dryness of its plunge pool, while Upper Lowe Ranch Spring remained wet year-round despite one orifice drying up during the study period. The research, conducted by the Chihuahuan Desert Inventory and Monitoring Network, assessed six springs through measurements of discharge, wetted extent, water quality, and environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling to track rare species, invasive species, and pathogens. While no target eDNA species were detected, invasive plants such as Rabbitsfoot grass and Lehmann lovegrass were observed for the first time at Iron Pipe Seep and three other springs, respectively. The study continues to build a baseline reference of natural water quality variance in New Mexico's diverse spring ecosystems.

Climate Change And Biodiversity Loss In Manas National Park

Manas Wildlife Sanctuary — 2026 — WHE0054AA3D83

Climate change is significantly accelerating biodiversity loss in Manas National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northeastern India. Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and increased flooding are altering habitat structures, particularly grasslands crucial for herbivores, leading to species migration, ecological imbalance, and heightened vulnerability of endangered fauna. These changes also exacerbate human-wildlife conflicts and promote the spread of alien species. The study, using secondary data sources such as government reports and academic articles, highlights the urgent need for climate-resilient conservation strategies, including habitat restoration, systematic monitoring, community-based resource management, strengthened policy frameworks, and transboundary cooperation to ensure long-term ecological sustainability.

Climate-adaptive thermal behaviour of Howzkhaneh passive cooling systems under diverse climatic conditions

Historic City of Yazd — 2026 — WHE2006B197B2

Howzkhaneh passive cooling systems, featuring indoor central pools and natural ventilation, can reduce indoor temperatures by 21–23 °C under extreme outdoor conditions (38–44 °C) without external power, maintaining thermal comfort (22–27 °C) in arid and semi-arid climates. A computational study across Yazd, Tabriz, and Shiraz demonstrated their effectiveness in handling cooling loads of 14–16 kW while raising humidity to near-saturation levels (90–100%). The findings highlight the system's potential for retrofitting heritage buildings and guiding sustainable design in hot climates.

Clustered Land Restoration Projects Increase Cloud Formation in West African Drylands

W-Arly-Pendjari Complex — 2026 — WHE70D1255D95

Land restoration projects in West African drylands, particularly those with intermediate forest cover (43%) and higher clustering, significantly enhance cloud formation through stronger mesoscale circulation. This discovery challenges the assumption that increased forest cover alone always boosts cloud formation; instead, spatial arrangement plays a critical role. Researchers used the WRF mesoscale atmospheric model to analyze 27 restoration scenarios in the W-Arly-Pendjari Complex, revealing that small-scale heterogeneity or high forest cover (85%) can inhibit cloud formation. These findings provide actionable insights for designing land restoration projects to maximize climate benefits, leveraging their potential to influence regional water and energy balances.

Clustering tourists’ perceptions of Marine Protected Areas: A comparative study in Southern Africa

iSimangaliso Wetland Park – Maputo National Park — 2026 — WHED630B565FA

A comparative analysis of tourists' perceptions of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in Southern Africa reveals a stark contrast between South African and Mozambican visitors. While both groups recognize the ecological value of MPAs, South African tourists predominantly exhibit strong support for conservation efforts, whereas Mozambican tourists tend to be more skeptical or passive. This study, conducted through quantitative surveys of 504 participants at Ponta do Ouro Partial Marine Reserve (Mozambique) and Table Mountain National Park MPA (South Africa), underscores the need for targeted communication strategies that emphasize the broader social, economic, and cultural benefits of MPAs to foster sustainable stakeholder support. The findings highlight regional differences in conservation attitudes and provide actionable insights for marketing and management practices.

CO2-neutrales Welterbe Speicherstadt Hamburg - Phase I - Umsetzung und Begleitung der Konzepterstellung und des Großdemonstrators im Rahmen der energie- und umweltgerechten Sanierung des Block H der Speicherstadt Hamburg (0-CO2-WSHH)

Speicherstadt and Kontorhaus District with Chilehaus — 2026 — WHE4A52C5D586

A groundbreaking study demonstrates that integrated, energy-efficient renovation strategies can significantly reduce carbon emissions and energy consumption in historic buildings while preserving their cultural heritage. The research, conducted on Block H of Hamburg's Speicherstadtshowed substantial potential for decarbonization through a combination of conservation-compatible interior insulation, locally sourced renewable energy systems (such as thermally and electrically activated rooftops), hybrid thermal storage solutions, and low-temperature heat distribution. Crucially, the study revealed that reliable performance assessments require systematic validation against real-world measurements and simulations, highlighting the importance of adaptive control strategies and flexible operational models. By leveraging digital tools like Building Information Modeling (BIM) coupled with energetic and fluid dynamic simulations, the project provides actionable insights for planning climate-neutral renovations in heritage districts, bridging research and practical application.

Coastal public realms and housing livability in Saudi cities: developing a comprehensive waterfront development index (CWDI) for Jeddah

Historic Jeddah, the Gate to Makkah — 2026 — WHEDCBF861EEC

A novel Comprehensive Waterfront Development Index (CWDI) reveals a 'two-speed' waterfront in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, with newly redeveloped zones excelling in public amenities and accessibility but lagging in resilience and environmental sustainability. The study highlights critical gaps in solar adoption, cooling infrastructure, and flood risk mitigation, particularly impacting vulnerable historic communities like Al Balad. By integrating global urban evaluation frameworks with context-specific indicators tailored to Jeddah's hot-arid climate, the CWDI offers a transferable tool for Gulf cities to assess coastal public realms and advance Vision 2030 goals. This approach empowers municipal governance with actionable insights for planning future coastal housing projects.

Coinvasional disruptions to island pollinator networks

Ogasawara Islands — 2026 — WHE2450E1C710

Biological invasions can disrupt pollinator networks, but most studies focus on single invasive species. This study reveals that multiple co-occurring invaders—green anoles (a predator), western honey bees (a floral competitor), and invasive plants—synergistically reduce pollinator diversity and plant resource use in the Ogasawara Islands. Using structural equation models, researchers found that anole abundance had the strongest negative impact on pollinators, triggering cascading effects, while honey bee abundance directly reduced plant specialization. The degree of invasion influenced whether honey bees compensated for lost functions or exacerbated invasional meltdown. These findings underscore the need to evaluate invasions in a multistressor context to develop effective conservation strategies for vulnerable island ecosystems.

Communicating Qin Culture Globally: Constructing International Discursive Power around the Terracotta Army

Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor — 2026 — WHEA184010FE0

The Terracotta Army of the Mausoleum of the First Emperor of Qin has emerged as a powerful global symbol of Chinese civilization, leveraging international discursive power through strategic communication initiatives. The study reveals that the museum's overseas promotion efforts—including an expansive social media presence, innovative content creation, and diversified communication channels—have effectively positioned the Terracotta Army as a cultural bridge between China and the world. By analyzing operational strategies, resource advantages, and outcomes of these initiatives, researchers demonstrate how structured global engagement can amplify the cultural significance of heritage sites, offering a model for international cultural diplomacy.

Communication Methods Used by International Buddhist Communities in Monasteries

Ancient Buddhist Site of Sarnath — 2026 — WHEB2F52B2A8A

International Buddhist communities in modern monasteries, such as those at Sarnath, integrate traditional communication methods with digital tools while adhering to Buddhist virtues like Right Speech, compassion, and mindfulness. This study reveals a tension between physical outreach and digital presence, influenced by globalization, consumerism, and secularization. Employing qualitative multi-sited ethnography—including semistructured interviews, participant observation, and digital ethnography—the research highlights the coexistence of ancient spiritual practices and 21st-century communication strategies in transnational pilgrimage centers.

Community Empowerment and Sustainable Tourism: Leveraging Asset-Based Community Development in Botswana's context

Tsodilo — 2026 — WHE20A082226C

A strategic approach leveraging Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) can effectively promote sustainable tourism while empowering local communities, as demonstrated by two grassroots initiatives in Botswana. The study found that ABCD mobilized untapped cultural and natural assets, fostered community leadership accountability, and maintained cultural integrity through partnerships with external organizations. Survey results showed high participant satisfaction, increased heritage awareness, and perceived economic benefits, highlighting the potential of ABCD to diversify tourism offerings sustainably. This research underscores the importance of stakeholder collaboration, continuous monitoring, and active engagement with resilient communities for long-term tourism development.

Community Perceptions of Non-Municipal Drinking Water Safety in the Blue and John Crow Mountains, Jamaica: Policy Gaps and Implications for Sustainable Development

Blue and John Crow Mountains — 2026 — WHECE11B8B905

A significant gap exists between community perceptions and actual safety of non-municipal drinking water sources in the Blue and John Crow Mountains, Jamaica. While half of respondents believed their untreated spring or tributary water was safe, widespread contamination risks—including incorrect disinfection practices and inconsistent supply—were identified through a census survey of 56 households. Low policy awareness (only 18% familiar with national frameworks) underscores governance failures, despite existing legislation like the Water Resource Act 1995. The study highlights urgent needs for improved monitoring, community education, and intersectoral policies to align with Sustainable Development Goal 6, ensuring equitable access to safe water by 2030.

Community perspectives on sustainable cultural heritage tourism: the case of Stari Ras and Sopoćani, Serbia

Stari Ras and Sopoćani — 2026 — WHE0D3FB16771

Residents' place attachment, environmental awareness, and community participation significantly influence their support for sustainable tourism and cultural heritage conservation at Stari Ras and Sopoćani, Serbia's UNESCO World Heritage Sites. A quota-purposive sampling approach combined with structural equation modeling revealed that these factors, alongside economic benefits and community satisfaction, play crucial roles in shaping local attitudes toward preservation efforts. The study provides actionable insights for policymakers and heritage managers to foster community involvement and sustainable development in protected areas.

Community Roles and Living Heritage in the Conservation of Cultural Heritage in Northern Vietnam: The Case of The Yen Tu - Vinh Nghiem - Con Son, Kiep Bac Heritage Complex

Yen Tu-Vinh Nghiem-Con Son, Kiep Bac Complex of Monuments and Landscapes — 2026 — WHE71A497926D

Sustainable conservation of the Yen Tu-Vinh Nghiem-Con Son, Kiep Bac Heritage Complex in northern Vietnam hinges on community-centered governance models that integrate co-management, equitable benefit sharing, and visitor carrying-capacity management. This study reveals that while local communities play pivotal roles in preserving living heritage—through ritual practices, festival organization, and intergenerational cultural memory transmission—they face intensified challenges post-recognition, including tourist pressure, commercialization, and fragmented coordination. By employing qualitative document analysis, field observations, secondary tourism data, and in-depth interviews with stakeholders, the research proposes a framework leveraging digital heritage documentation and education to strengthen authenticity, integrity, and social vitality of the site.

Community-based eDNA metabarcoding for monitoring fish biodiversity and food webs in the Peace-Athabasca Delta

Wood Buffalo National Park — 2026 — WHE7CC7B4F5A4

A pilot study using community-based eDNA metabarcoding in the Peace-Athabasca Delta (PAD) successfully detected 15 fish species, including key dietary components of Lake Whitefish, demonstrating the potential of molecular tools to enhance biodiversity monitoring and food web assessments. The research, conducted in collaboration with Indigenous Governments, Parks Canada, and GEN-FISH, employed two mitochondrial markers (COI and 12S) to analyze eDNA samples collected across 15 locations. While COI provided broader taxonomic coverage, detecting birds, mammals, and invertebrates, 12S offered greater specificity for fish. The findings highlight the readiness of these molecular techniques to support the Integrated Research and Monitoring Program's assessment of PAD health, addressing critical knowledge gaps in fish diversity and distribution within this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Community-Based Tourism Enterprises Performance and Community Attitudes Amidst Changing Demographics: Implications for Community Conservation Outcomes of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park — 2026 — WHE6343D23BBF

Community-Based Tourism Enterprises (CBTEs) significantly enhance positive attitudes toward conservation when they deliver tangible benefits, such as income, employment, and infrastructure development, to local communities around Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The study found that equitable benefit sharing and community involvement in decision-making strengthen support for conservation efforts, including reduced illegal resource use and poaching. However, unequal distribution of tourism benefits and human-wildlife conflicts can undermine these positive attitudes. To achieve sustainable conservation outcomes, the research recommends strengthening CBTE performance through capacity building, access to conservation benefits, community participation, and education. The study used a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative analysis (descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression) with qualitative thematic analysis from semi-structured questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions involving CBTE stakeholders, Uganda Wildlife Authority staff, and local leaders.

Comparative Analysis of Icherisheher and Itchan Kala: Preservation of the Historic Urban Environment and Tourism Potential

Itchan Kala — 2026 — WHE8B33AE0F7D

A comparative analysis of Icherisheher (Azerbaijan) and Itchan Kala (Uzbekistan), two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, reveals their significance as rare examples of preserved ancient Eastern urban planning traditions. Both complexes, characterized by fortress walls, palaces, mosques, madrasahs, caravanserais, baths, and residential buildings, serve as Open-Air Museums that safeguard national cultural heritage while fostering international tourism and intercultural communication. Despite architectural differences in style, building materials, layout, and religious/cultural diversity, both sites demonstrate effective preservation practices. The study employed comparative-historical, comparative, descriptive, and content analysis methods to highlight their distinct yet complementary roles in cultural conservation and tourism development.

Comparative metagenomics of two shallow marine microbial communities in western Greenland

Ilulissat Icefjord — 2026 — WHE3F9F573120

A comparative metagenomic analysis of two shallow marine microbial communities in western Greenland reveals significant differences in taxonomic and functional structures between the Ilulissat Icefjord and a typical open-water site in Baffin Bay. The study found limited overlap, with 25% of observed taxa and nearly half of functional genes differing between the sites. At Sisimiut, characterized by moderate temperatures and minimal glacial influence, chemolithotrophic bacteria dominate, while the Ilulissat Icefjord, marked by cold conditions and strong glacial input, hosts a less diverse community enriched in psychrophilic bacteria like Colwellia hornerae. Functional profiles indicate distinct metabolic adaptations, with Ilulissat's metagenome showing enrichment in genes related to ice-associated metabolisms, such as exopolysaccharide biosynthesis and dimethylsulfoniopropionate cycling. This study provides a baseline for future comparative research in the region.

Complex eruption processes and deposits of basaltic fissures: insights from the ~37 ka Budj Bim volcanic complex, Southeastern Australia

Budj Bim Cultural Landscape — 2026 — WHE9BABD8E666

A rare preservation of a volcanic fissure system, the ~37 ka Budj Bim Volcanic Complex (BBVC) in southeastern Australia, offers unprecedented insights into complex eruption processes. The study reveals five distinct eruption stages characterized by vent-shifting along a dyke-fed fissure and rapid transitions between Strombolian and micro-Plinian activity, interspersed with phreatomagmatism. This complexity, driven by interactions with aquifers and near-surface faults, suggests deeper explosion depths potentially reaching 320 meters. The findings draw parallels with the 2014-2015 Bárðarbunga-Holuhraun eruption in Iceland but highlight increased intricacy due to its intraplate continental setting. This research enhances understanding of volcanic fissure eruption behavior and improves future eruption scenario assessments, particularly for the Newer Volcanics Province (NVP) and similar global systems.