Ecosystem services in UNESCO World Heritage sites: a review of research trends and future directions
UNESCO World Heritage sites provide vital ecosystem services that support sustainable human well-being, yet their value remains underrecognized amid growing threats. This research comprehensively analyzes 201 publications (2005–2025) to elucidate the research trajectory and emerging frontiers of World Heritage Ecosystem Services (WHES). By juxtaposing WHES with other frameworks such as MAB and GIAHS, the analysis delineates its unique characteristics and offers practical recommendations for overcoming conservation challenges.
Authors
- Tingyu Xiao
- Yali Gui
- Yanmei Chen
- Yuewei Ma
- Changyan Zhou
Institutions
- Southwest Forestry University (CN)
Publication Details
- Journal
- npj Heritage Science
- Published
- 2026-02-23
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1038/s40494-026-02380-3
- Citations
- 1
- Primary Topic
- Land Use and Ecosystem Services
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 36.62
Funders
- National Natural Science Foundation of China
- Yunnan Provincial Department of Education