National geographic distribution and number of TV nature programs across the Japanese archipelago

A significant correlation exists between the number of TV nature programs and the presence of UNESCO World Heritage Sites (WNHS, WCHS) across Japan's archipelago. The study analyzed 4,117 nature programs covering 1,691 locations from 2004 to 2017, revealing that sites like Shiretoko Peninsula, Yakushima Island, and Mount Fuji were prominently featured. Notably, the presence of famous mountains (Hyakumeizan) became a strong predictor of program frequency post-2012, aligning with rising mountaineering trends. The research suggests that heritage site designations enhance cultural ecosystem services (CES) by fostering education, aesthetic enjoyment, and nature experiences through media, offering valuable insights for policy and ecosystem management.

Tachibana, K., Uchida, K., Aiba, M., & Sasaki, T. (2021). National geographic distribution and number of TV nature programs across the Japanese archipelago. Ecological Indicators, 121, 107054. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecolind.2020.107054