A viewpoint on threats to natural heritage values of parks and protected areas

Wildfire research and management typically emphasize risks to ecosystems and infrastructure, especially homes. Yet, communities and countries designate certain places and structures as culturally important for all; because they are often immovable and irreplaceable, they are uniquely at risk from wildfire. We present the first national-scale assessment of wildfire risk to cultural heritage assets in the U.S. Here, wildfire risk is defined as the spatial coincidence of cultural heritage resources and modeled wildfire hazard. Our analysis integrates high-resolution burn probability models from the Fire Simulation project with spatial data for 56,103 National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). Places were further assessed by type, reflecting potential cultural loss if destroyed, including buildings, districts, structures, objects, and sites. Places were also categorized by cultural significance (local, state, national) to evaluate how risk varies across levels of importance. Risk was concentrated in the western United States, with hotspots in the Southeast. Buildings and districts comprise 90% of listed resources and may be more vulnerable because their value depends on physical form; other resource types may be less vulnerable. Only 36% of exposed places are nationally significant; most are state or locally significant. By identifying where and what is most at risk, this study provides a foundation for proactive planning to safeguard the places that anchor community identity, collective memory, and national heritage before they are permanently lost.

Protocol for developing digital 3D zoological collections for research and academic training in a biodiversity global crisis scenario.

ABSTRACT Located within a globally recognized heritage landscape, the thermal water of Pamukkale and its neighbouring destination, Karahayıt, face an escalating sustainability crisis. This study investigates the current condition of thermal resources in southwestern Türkiye, identifying primary threats to their long-term viability. Drawing on interviews with hotel managers, engineers, and academics, the research explores stakeholder awareness, current management practices, and potential solutions. Results highlight that, alongside climate change, overextraction, unauthorized drilling, and inefficient management accelerate resource depletion. To mitigate risks, the study proposes a comprehensive approach involving stricter monitoring, enhanced water management, and increased public engagement. This research contributes to the literature on thermal resources sustainability and emphasizes the urgent need for coordinated action to preserve the region’s natural heritage.

The debate of identifying the ancient Kapilavatthu is one of the most captivating and contested inquiries from archaeology and Buddhist historiography perspective. This city holds profound religious, historical, and cultural importance because according to Pāli Tipiṭaka, it was the capital of the Śākya kingdom and the early residence of Siddhārtha Gautama from his birth to renunciation. It was within the confines of Kapilavastu that Siddhārtha spent the formative twenty-nine years of his life, nurtured in the royal luxury of the Śākya court, before he renounced worldly life to seek spiritual awakening. Locating this ancient city is not merely an academic endeavor; it has significant implications for Buddhist pilgrimage traditions, national heritage narratives, and cross-border cultural diplomacy. Over the past century, scholarly and archaeological attention has focused on three primary contenders for ancient Kapilavastu (Tilaurakoṭ in Nepal, and Piprahwā and Ganwaria in India) and each of these sites presents compelling material evidence and historical connections. Tilaurakoṭ, situated in the Kapilvastu District of southern Nepal, has been the focus of extensive excavations led by Prof. Basanta Bidari and Robin Cuningham and claimed a fortified city with gates, moats, streets, continued habitation, and punch-marked coins of 6th century BCE. On the basis of urban settlement near Lumbinī, supports its claim for the historical Kapilavastu. In contrast, India’s Siddharth Nagar, Uttar Pradesh claim for ancient Kapilavastu is based on evidences found at Piprahwā and Ganwaria. Peppe in 1898 excavated a stupa near Piprahwā, inside of which he found an inscribed casket which refers to the Śākyas of Kapilavastu and the relics to be of the Buddha. Later excavations led by the Archaeological Survey of India have uncovered monastic structures, stupas, and settlement remains dating from the 3rd century BCE to the early Common Era. Ganwaria, just a few kilometers away, has yielded further archaeological evidences, suggesting its functioning as a residential quarter of the same settlement complex. The above mentioned ancient sites in India and Nepal have historical and cultural legacy and this common legacy could become a model of trans-national heritage collaboration by recognizing the Buddhist cultural and heritage landscape as the cradle of Buddhism. Here in this research paper, I am going to highlight textual and archaeological evidences in the context of Tilaurakoṭ, Piprahwā, and Ganwaria in the present context to examine the narrative of Siddhārtha Gautama’s early life and assesses their potential as components of a unified, transnational heritage zone that embodies the shared spiritual and cultural roots of India-Nepal.

The article examines the relevance and substantiates the architectural model for the application of document-oriented NoSQL databases in the field of storage, processing, and analysis of genealogical documents. The relevance of the study is determined by the intensive processes of digitalization of archival collections in Ukraine and the need for technological solutions capable of efficiently handling large volumes of unstructured and heterogeneous information, such as digital images, optical character recognition (OCR) results, and accompanying metadata, the structure of which varies depending on the content of a particular archival collection. The purpose of the study is to develop and justify the use of NoSQL models as an optimal solution for managing genealogical data in archival science, which will enable centralized genealogical research management based on diverse archival sources. It is noted that the NoSQL model provides a flexible storage schema that allows the integration of all personal data into a single document. This approach addresses the problem of data diversity and multilingualism typical of Ukrainian archival collections. Moreover, the document-oriented approach ensures horizontal scalability for managing the growing volumes of Big Data and allows the use of flexible indexing mechanisms that facilitate advanced contextual search and the identification of hidden semantic relationships between data distributed across various collections. Based on the example of AtlantoCracies, it has been established that the implementation of NoSQL in archival science serves as a foundation for creating robust, high-performance systems that will significantly accelerate digitization processes and improve access to the national cultural heritage for research purposes.

ABSTRACT A slightly ovoid impression from the mid Tonian-aged, Aspidella-bearing Heavitree Quartzite near Ormiston Gorge in central Australia strongly resembles the enigmatic, late Ediacaran-aged, Obamus coronatus fossil from the Nilpena National Heritage Site, west of the Flinders Ranges in South Australia. Dated at ca 850 Ma, the Ormiston Gorge impression trumps the occurrence of Obamus by some 290 million years, suggesting Obamus to have been a separate evolutionary event. This supports the contention that metazoan life initially evolved considerably earlier than the widely accepted date of 580 Ma and that evolution likely did not follow a continuum from conception to the present day. Rather, the evolution of metazoan life likely involved a series of local evolution and extinction events, possibly in more than one location and over several hundred million years, before environmental conditions were conducive for metazoans to proliferate and disperse globally.

Enhancing tourist engagement in Emei martial arts tourism: Examining activities, destination image, and orientalism.

The traditional villages play an important role in the national culture and historical heritage, but their protection and use experience significant pressure in view of the fast urbanization process. This paper uses the spatial gene identification technology, combined with the Ripley K-function and spatial syntax to study the spatial distribution and spatial configuration of traditional villages in Jiangsu Province and based upon this develop strategies to preserve and transmit the spatial patterns of traditional villages. The findings show that the provincial traditional villages in Jiangsu are dispersed in a manner that there are more settlements in the south and less in the north. On the provincial scale, the entire distribution is clustered and the concentration level is decentralized with the level of spatial balance being relatively low. This spatial pattern also has a structure of density in the south and sparse in the north and each of the core areas is slowly decreasing in size. Overall characteristics of traditional villages are formed by the combination of the topography and the water system, and the most connected streets in terms of space and the minimum depth values are mostly located at the center of villages, which tend to be major roads or a highly developed area.

National identity remains a widely debated topic among scholars and cultural heritage institutions, particularly in multi-ethic societies like Malaysia. Museums, as key cultural institutions, play a crucial role in shaping and communicating national identity through their permanent exhibitions. Specifically, it explores how these exhibitions communicate narratives of Malaysia’s ethnic diversity and the decisions involved in curating national history and heritage. Using a qualitative approach, this study draws on online interviews with nine experts in museum studies, communication, Malaysian history, and culture. The findings revealed three themes: (1) exhibitions function as a communication channel that shapes public understanding of national identity; (2) the representation of the dominant ethnic group is more pronounced in Muzium Negara, leading to concerns about inclusivity; and (3) the political influence plays a significant role in shaping national identity through museum narratives. It also offers a theoretical contribution by applying Social Representation Theory (SRT) to explain how national identity is constructed, institutionalised, and sometimes silenced through museum exhibitions in the Malaysian context. Future research should explore how visitors interpret and engage with these representations to further understand the museum’s role in shaping national identity.

Purpose: This study explores the formation of ethical resilience among students in the context of digital transformation. It integrates historical pedagogical values with modern leadership practices to identify strategies for protecting students from "information attacks" and ethical erosion. Research Methodology: A mixed-methods approach was used, combining historical analysis with a survey of 120 students and 15 department heads at Andijon State Pedagogical Institute (ADPI). Data were analyzed using SPSS, focusing on perceptions of ethical resilience and leadership impact. Results: The study found that students exposed to historical pedagogical modules showed greater ethical resilience, with higher moral discernment in evaluating information sources. Leadership practices emphasizing "Visible Integrity" and "Ethical Transparency" were particularly effective in improving students’ media immunity. Conclusions: The research highlights that ethical resilience is a dynamic process, shaped by both national heritage and transformational leadership. The findings suggest that digital leadership must evolve to include "Ethical Mentorship" alongside digital literacy. Limitations: The study is limited to ADPI and may not be generalizable across other institutions. Future research should expand to different educational contexts. Contributions: This research contributes to the understanding of how historical and modern educational practices can integrate to enhance ethical resilience, offering a framework for higher education to foster ethical and digital literacy.

ABSTRACT In conserving the giant panda as ‘natural heritage’ and China’s ‘national treasure’, scientists determine which animals should breed by measuring kinship through genetics, genealogy, or lived closeness. Criticisms of practices such as genetic population management and assisted insemination have spurred efforts to acknowledge panda agency through kin recognition studies. While decentring the human, such studies unwittingly reinforce human preoccupations with kinship and the practices of measuring it that dominate panda conservation. Yet, research practicalities – decisions about classification, sampling, and slippages between kinship indicators – enact different figures of the panda as preservable heritage and reshape human–panda relations, supporting panda-led conservation in some respects and tightening human control in others. As long as posthumanism remains haunted by the near-inevitability of anthropomorphisms, examining how humans know other beings remains crucial for understanding the specific consequences of more-than-human heritage-making. Ultimately, moving beyond anthropocentrism in heritage studies may thus, paradoxically, require recentring the human.

Abstract The objective of this article is to evaluate the heritagisation process and the degree of integration of the Annaba medina, Bouna El Haditha, by analysing the divergences and convergences between the viewpoints of various stakeholders and residents. Located in northeastern Algeria, Bouna was built in the 11th century by the Zirid dynasty. This medina underwent profound transformations during the French colonial period and continues to suffer the effects of time and human interventions, which altered its heritage values. An expert assessment of the sector's buildings in 2013 revealed that 71.54% of them were in a very advanced state of decay. In the same year, this heritage was classified as a protected area, despite the state of conservation of its architectural and urban heritage, raising a debate about the uncertain preservation of its value and numerous questions about its heritagisation process. Our methodology integrates an analysis of the literature related to the concept of heritagisation, combined with qualitative and quantitative approaches. The evaluation grid we designed is inspired by the MATEA model (Models for Architectural Analysis, Theory, and Experimentation). It is structured around three dimensions—a change in status, condition, and use—and six key subdimensions—awareness, selection, justification, conservation, valorisation, and exposure. These elements, defined in our literature review, are at the heart of the heritagisation process. The study reveals that the steps of the heritagisation process have not been followed and that this medina has undergone a de-heritagisation process, despite its status as a national heritage site.

From pixels to places: how video games influence real-world travel to natural and cultural heritage sites

Karst World Heritage sites, as natural wonders of the Earth, possess Outstanding Universal Value, and the conservation of their integrity is of great significance for maintaining global biodiversity and geological and geomorphological features. However, while protecting heritage sites, how to promote economic development in buffer zones, especially the development of agroforestry, has become an urgent issue to be addressed. As a sustainable agricultural practice, agroforestry can promote economic development while simultaneously protecting the environment. The implementation of agroforestry has effectively contributed to World Heritage conservation. Nevertheless, there is still a lack of comprehensive understanding regarding the research trends, focal topics, and latest developments in the fields of integrity conservation of protected area and agroforestry development in buffer zones. Therefore, this study employs the CNKI and Web of Science databases, together with CiteSpace software, to conduct a bibliometric analysis, and uses literature visualization to explore the major research themes and frontier issues related to the integrity conservation of natural World Heritage sites and the development of buffer-zone agroforestry. Based on the preliminary results obtained, we discuss current publication trends and outputs, keyword and abstract word frequencies, national publication productivity, collaboration networks, and major contributing institutions. The results show that the development of agroforestry has contributed to biodiversity conservation in heritage sites. However, studies on the role of buffer-zone agroforestry development in supporting the integrity conservation of World Heritage sites remain limited. Accordingly, future research should place greater emphasis on the relationship between buffer-zone development and heritage integrity conservation, especially in ecologically fragile karst World Heritage sites, and should further strengthen the role of agroforestry development in buffer zones in promoting ecological balance and the sustainable development of heritage sites, so as to provide scientific references for the conservation and development of other geological heritage sites worldwide.

The traditional Chinese classics of Confucianism established the distinctive cultural characteristics which define the Chinese people. The tradition evolved into a moral system which extended beyond written text to influence Chinese cultural values and concepts. Confucianism established itself as a fundamental element of Chinese national heritage through its extensive historical development. These principles from Confucianism shaped numerous policy choices and propaganda initiatives during World War II. These measures had a profound and positive impact on fostering a nationwide attitude and strategy of active resistance in Chinese society at that time. The Chinese classics The Analects, The Book of Changes and The Records of the Grand Historian transmitted their principles through time to become permanent representations of Chinese heritage. The Confucian classics, as a part of China's cultural memory, have become a spiritual and cultural symbol for the Chinese people. They embody the national spirit, facilitate political mobilization. This essay investigates how national memories created cultural ideals that positively influenced Chinese social mobilization and state development during the war period.

Within a museum of biological collections, the care and periodic updating of collections represent a fundamental pillar of curatorial work. Keeping collections in good condition ensures better access for researchers interested in consulting or studying a specific taxonomic group. At the Museum of Zoology of the University of Concepción, a total of 140 samples belonging to the Polyplacophora class collection were curated. The first digitisation of this collection was carried out under the Darwin Core (DwC) standard, providing full accessibility to the respective collection data available in the GBIF and OBIS biodiversity databases. The collection consists of specimens collected between 1954 and 2022 in a wide range of localities, mainly in Chile and other countries such as Argentina, Ecuador and Norway, covering a total of 19 species. Additionally, in the year 2023, an evaluation of the collection's health status was conducted, revealing that 42.857% of the samples had health levels of 5 or lower, while 57.143% were at level 6. By 2024, 96.429% of the collection improved to a health level of 7, while 3.571% remained at a health level of less than 5. These results indicate that the collection is in ideal conditions, detecting an improvement of the physical and digital material of the mollusc collection. This improvement enables researchers to more easily access information from the validated collection, supporting research in various areas such as conservation, resource management, climate change and biogeography. This study represents the first report evaluating the health index of biological collections in Chile, showing how the prioritisation of actions requiring attention is important for the preservation of natural heritage. It also contributes to the current knowledge of biological collection databases in Chile, promoting the use of digital databases for better management of records and their information, so they can be used in future studies in various fields of natural sciences that require specific data.

Abstract Education policy is always at risk of working at cross-purposes toward education goals. Using a meta-ethnographic methodology and Massey’s geometry of space theory, the present article addresses this in relation to a particular policy realisation problem of teaching for sustainability in schools in depopulated rural areas with identified population challenges. Specific attention has gone to research addressing the enacted curriculum and teachers’ experiences of working with sustainability goals. The results highlight features for goal realisation such as the presence of and attention to rural natural and cultural environmental heritage, having local access and giving curriculum attention to local employment and sustainable vocations and professions, and having community support from the local community and engagement of the school in the community. Working against sustainability were global epistemic rural marginalisation, performative curriculum relations, market competition and competitive exclusions from market participation, tepid community involvement in schools, and socially isolated schools insulated from the local community.

This paper aims to examine the policy/practice mismatch of the management of tourism revenues of iconic tourism attractions in Pokhara-Phewa Lake, Gupteshwor, and Mahendra Cave under the execution of fiscal federalism in Nepal. Although the Constitution of Nepal requires local sharing of benefits, the gaps in implementation still exist. This study is presented via the mixed-method approach, which incorporates legal examination of the Constitution and Intergovernmental Fiscal Arrangement Act, 2074, surveys, and interviews, which show that the revenue system is disjointed and opaque. The results indicate poor enforcement, little government royalty, and extralegal control, without being able to pay the communities to receive the impacts of tourism and vulnerabilities to climate change. The study suggests a modified policy framework that should focus on the involvement of local communities in the decision-making in tourism. One of the vital suggestions is to ensure an efficient collection of royalty through the revenue sharing policies by earmarking and the statutory requirement of the democratically managed Community Tourism Benefit Fund. The rationale of this framework is to operationalize fiscal federalism, share benefits fairly, empower local communities, and safeguard the natural heritage of Pokhara Metropolitan City that will be compatible with sustainable development.

Under the background of highway ecological green construction and traffic-tourism integration, tourist highways in world natural heritage sites bear the dual responsibilities of heritage ecological protection and regional economic boosting, yet existing routes prioritize connectivity over ecological and economic values, damaging heritage integrity and failing to drive surrounding township development. This study aims to build a dual-coordinated route selection framework balancing ecological protection and economic development, taking Mount Fanjing as the case. Adopting literature research, field survey and spatial analysis, and grounding in road ecology, point-axis system and tourism space competition theories, it constructs a four-part framework covering township tourism potential evaluation, ecological suitability assessment, binary matrix model and route generation. Empirically, nine townships including Minxiao and Taiping are screened as core tourism service nodes, and the optimal layout of the ring Mount Fanjing tourist highway is determined via ecological suitability matching. The findings reveal the prominent contradiction between heritage protection and regional development in current heritage tourist highway construction, and the proposed dual coordination model effectively balances heritage conservation and local economic growth, providing a feasible planning reference for sustainable tourist highway layout in world natural heritage sites.