Publications
Soils of the Floodplain–Estuary Part of the Transboundary Uldza River of the Endorheic Arid Uldza–Torei Basin (Southeastern Transbaikal, Dauria)
Research reveals that soils in the floodplain-estuary of the Uldza River, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Landscapes of Dauria,' exhibit unique characteristics shaped by cyclic arid and humid phases. Predominant soil types include alluvial dark-humus (meadow and sod-meadow) and alluvial light-humus (sod) carbonate soils, marked by heavy granulometric composition in upper layers and sandy-sandy loam beneath, with highly alkaline pH and carbonate saturation. These soils are slightly saline, dominated by magnesium-sodium cations and chloride-soda anions, yet low in fertility due to minimal nitrate nitrogen and mobile phosphorus. The study, conducted during a transition from arid to humid climatic phases, underscores the need for conservation efforts in this transboundary region, given its ecological significance and vulnerability to climate change.
Aeolian Sands of the Temperate Boreal Zone (Northern Asia)
Aeolian sands in the temperate boreal zone of northern Asia, particularly in the Landscapes of Dauria (Western Transbaikalia), exhibit unique characteristics distinct from subtropical and tropical deserts. These sands, dominated by medium- and fine-grained, polymineral material with unstable minerals like feldspars and pyroxenes, form mini-deserts with active aeolian processes such as dunes and deflationary basins. The study reveals that the activation of these processes is driven by both natural factors—including neotectonic movements, semi-arid climate, and vegetation types—and anthropogenic activities like deforestation and land plowing. Radiocarbon dating indicates that aeolian activity has intensified during the Holocene, primarily sourced from river and lake beaches, floodplains, and terraces. Unlike tropical deserts, where sands are finer and monomineral, boreal zone sands are coarser and more diverse mineralogically, offering potential for ecotourism development.
Halomorphic Soils of Coastal Designs of Endorous Pulsating Chloride Lakes During the Regressive (Arid) Climatic Phase
Research in the Landscapes of Dauria reveals that saline soils along the shores of pulsating chloride lakes exhibit distinct genetic relationships and salinity patterns during arid climate phases. The study identified a series of genetically linked saline soils—quasi-gley solonchaks, humus-quasi-gley saline soils, and light humus saline soils—formed under the influence of highly mineralized lake waters. Notably, chloride–soda and soda-chloride salinization was observed in lower soil horizons, particularly during regressive (arid) climate phases. The findings highlight the dynamic interaction between climate cycles and soil formation, providing critical data for monitoring saline ecosystems in transboundary regions of Russia, Mongolia, and China amid global climate change.
Features of protection of transboundary objects of the world natural heritage: Russian and foreign experience (Part 2)
A comparative analysis of transboundary World Heritage Sites reveals that while international obligations and UNESCO guidelines provide foundational frameworks, national legal adaptations are essential for effective protection. The study examines the V-Arly-Pendjari Complex (Benin, Niger, Burkina Faso) and the Wadden Sea (Germany, Denmark, Netherlands), identifying key management provisions and coordination measures to mitigate threats. Findings suggest that Russian transboundary sites like the Ubsunur Basin and Landscapes of Dauria require tailored legislative adjustments, as direct extrapolation of foreign models is insufficient. The research highlights the need for localized legal reforms to align with global conservation standards while addressing unique regional challenges.
Development of the system of transboundary protected areas in the Asian part of Russia
Five transboundary protected areas have been established in the Asian part of Russia through interstate agreements with Mongolia, China, and Kazakhstan, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site Landscapes of Dauria. These areas are crucial for preserving biotic and landscape diversity across administrative borders. The study identifies ten additional promising territories for future protection, emphasizing their high environmental significance. Cooperation with neighboring countries such as Kazakhstan, China, Mongolia, North Korea, Japan, and the United States is expected to further expand this network of protected zones.
Environmental Transboundary Territories of Siberia and the Far East
Transboundary specially protected natural areas (TSPNAs) offer a unique solution for preserving biotic and landscape diversity by minimizing economic activity near borders. Five TSPNAs, including Dauria, have been established through interstate agreements to date, with additional potential sites like the Amur Tiger and Leopard region being considered. Effective functioning of these areas requires bilateral or multilateral agreements to facilitate joint scientific and tourist programs while reducing border control. The study highlights the theoretical and practical aspects of establishing TSPNAs in Siberia and the Far East, emphasizing their role in conservation efforts.
Russian Federation
In 2017, the transboundary area 'Landscapes of Dauria,' shared between Mongolia and Russia, was inscribed into the UNESCO World Heritage List, recognizing its significant ecological value. This designation followed Russia's proactive environmental initiatives, including the establishment of 24 strict natural reserves and proposals to expand protected areas under the Year of Ecology plan. Additionally, three Russian wetlands were proposed for inclusion in the Ramsar Convention list, while the Man and the Biosphere Program extended and renamed twelve existing biosphere reserves. These actions underscore Russia's commitment to global conservation efforts, aligning with its obligations under international environmental conventions.
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