Publications
Intersecting heritage and tourism trajectories: territorial dynamics of geoheritage in UNESCO-labeled landscapes
UNESCO-labeled landscapes often see the interplay between geoheritage recognition and tourism development shape territorial dynamics, with outcomes varying based on local actors, institutional frameworks, and contextual factors like volcanic eruptions or economic crises. This study reveals that heritage and resource trajectories can unfold in distinct sequences—tourism preceding heritage designation (e.g., Swiss Alps), heritage leading to tourism (e.g., Vatnajökull National Park), or independent/strongly interdependent dynamics (e.g., M'Goun or Katla UNESCO Global Geoparks). The research highlights that while UNESCO labels may not always guarantee optimal geoconservation, they influence how geoheritage is integrated—or excluded—from protected areas, posing future management challenges. By analyzing case studies across the Swiss Alps, Moroccan Atlas, and southern Iceland, the study underscores the need to systematically examine heritage awareness, value hierarchies, and institutional constraints to mitigate tourism pressures on sensitive geomorphological environments.
Structural and functional characterization of a hyperthermostable single‐stranded DNA ‐binding protein from a hot spring metagenome
Researchers have identified and characterized a hyperthermostable single-stranded DNA-binding protein (SSB-M5) from a hot spring metagenome in Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland. This small protein, derived from hyperthermophilic Fervidobacterium species, demonstrates remarkable stability and high affinity for single-stranded DNA, even at temperatures up to 100°C. Structural analysis revealed that SSB-M5 forms a tetrameric functional unit, while biochemical assays confirmed its ability to substitute for Escherichia coli SSB in mutant strains. Notably, SSB-M5 exhibits cooperative binding with an EC50 of 141 pM and a Hill coefficient of 2, indicating strong and specific interactions with DNA. Its inclusion in PCR reactions significantly enhances amplification by eliminating non-specific products, highlighting its potential applications in molecular biology and biotechnology.
Iceland
Iceland's dynamic volcanic landscape, marked by its unique subaerial exposure of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, offers insights into significant geological phenomena. The study highlights the impact of volcanic eruptions on air traffic, such as the 2010 shutdown caused by ash clouds, and the environmental consequences, including the 'killer fog' of the 1780s. It explores geothermal energy potential, basalt formations, and the effects of sub-glacial eruptions within Vatnajökull National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The research also examines the tectonic plate boundary at Thingvallir National Park and the volcanic activity on Heimaey, where successful efforts were made to halt lava flows. Through field observations and geological analysis, the study provides a comprehensive overview of Iceland's diverse volcanic terrain, its geothermal resources, and its unique geological features.
Co-Management of Protected Areas: A Governance System Analysis of Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland
Vatnajökull National Park's co-management system, tailored through political negotiations and park-specific legislation, demonstrates adaptive governance that fosters rural development, inclusivity, and power-sharing. While it has successfully addressed legitimacy concerns and facilitated devolution, challenges persist in delineating responsibilities among actors, leading to conflicts and capacity issues. The study argues that the system is fit for its purpose but requires systematic improvements as Iceland expands its protected area estate, offering valuable insights for global conservation efforts.
Interpretation in Ásbyrgi: Communicating with National Park Visitors in Iceland
A study on visitor interpretation in Ásbyrgi, part of Vatnajökull National Park, reveals that verbal communication by guides or rangers is the most preferred method for delivering information to tourists. This approach enhances visitor satisfaction while effectively conveying key messages about geology, cultural history, and environmental sustainability. The research, based on observations and interviews with visitors, guides, rangers, and managers, found that most stakeholders were satisfied with the current interpretation methods. However, it also highlighted the need for improved compliance with safety and environmental instructions to ensure sustainable tourism development. These findings provide actionable insights for managing visitor experiences in nature-based destinations, balancing economic growth with ecological preservation.
Managing Conflicting Attitudes: National Parks in Iceland and Japan
A striking 84% agreement in stakeholder attitudes toward conflict, communication, and consensus was found between Vatnajökull National Park in Iceland and Daisetsuzan National Park in Japan. This convergence suggests that conflict management techniques can transcend cultural and geographical boundaries, provided managers adapt to local social and environmental contexts. The study employed comparative analysis of stakeholder perspectives, revealing that despite minor differences, the core principles of inclusive decision-making remain universally applicable.
Implications of Climate Change on Nature-Based Tourism Demand: A Segmentation Analysis of Glacier Site Visitors in Southeast Iceland
Climate change-induced glacier recession significantly impacts nature-based tourism demand, with visitor responses varying widely depending on the type of environmental change and tourist segment. A study analyzing 565 visitors to Vatnajökull National Park in southeast Iceland found that factors such as accessibility, safety, and amenity—all affected by glacier shrinkage—play crucial roles in shaping visitation patterns. The research combines contingent behavior analysis with multivariate cluster analysis to reveal distinct visitor segments, each responding differently to these changes. These findings underscore the need for proactive planning, education, communication, and product development tailored to visitor segment differences to ensure sustainable tourism amid ongoing glacial transformation.
Vatanajökull National Park (Southern Region): Guide to a Glacial Landscape Legacy, by David J.A. Evans
Vatnajökull National Park, established in 2008 and encompassing Europe's largest ice cap and Iceland's highest mountain, presents a unique glacial landscape shaped by climate-induced changes. The park, accessible within five hours from Reykjavik, showcases an unparalleled array of glacial and fluvio-glacial landforms, offering a comprehensive guide to these dynamic features. Author David J.A. Evans provides a detailed exploration through maps, diagrams, tabulated data, and striking color photographs, which not only serve scientific purposes but also stand as artistic representations of the landscape's grandeur. This publication serves as an exceptional resource, surpassing typical textbooks in its depth and visual appeal.
From Management to Engagement – Tour Guides in Skaftafell at Vatnajökull National Park
Tour guides at Skaftafell, Vatnajökull National Park, possess valuable knowledge that can significantly contribute to sustainable tourism management. Their insights reveal a strong commitment to protecting both the natural and human environment, highlighting gaps in current business practices and public management procedures that hinder sustainability. Guides advocate for their inclusion in decision-making processes to enhance visitor safety and meet conservation targets. The study used semi-structured interviews and mental mapping with guides to explore their perceptions of their role and the state of hiking trails, suggesting that their compassionate engagement could serve as a motivator for sustainable resource management.
Tour guides in nature-based tourism: Perceptions of nature and governance of protected areas, the case of Skaftafell at the Vatnajökull National Park
Tour guides at Skaftafell, a key site within Vatnajökull National Park, play a pivotal role in shaping tourists' perceptions of nature and influencing the governance of protected areas. The study, conducted collaboratively by the University of Gdańsk (Poland) and the University of Iceland, reveals that guides significantly impact how visitors engage with and understand the dynamic landscapes characterized by fire and ice. By analyzing guide narratives and tourist experiences, researchers identified a gap between official conservation policies and the practical governance observed in nature-based tourism. This highlights the need for more integrated approaches to balancing ecological preservation with visitor education and sustainable tourism practices.
Surface Morphology of Basalt Columns at Svartifoss, VatnajökulsÞjóðgarður, Southern Iceland
A striking discovery at Svartifoss, within Vatnajökull National Park, reveals the complex surface morphology of basalt columns, characterized by unique horizontal striations and millimeter-scale laminations. These features, previously undescribed, exhibit crescentic hackles with a plumose pattern, suggesting tensile stresses during fracture propagation. Additionally, circular rings on the horizontal parting surfaces display radiating hackles, likely resulting from late-stage melt migration driven by load-induced pressure gradients. Petrographic analysis confirmed an interlocking network of plagioclase laths aligned perpendicular to column axes, offering insights into the basalt's formation and structural dynamics.
Dealing with Volcanic Terrains: Conflict, Communication and Consensus Building among Stakeholders of Protected Areas in Iceland and Japan
A communicative approach to conflict management can effectively build consensus among stakeholders in protected areas, even across different cultures. This finding emerges from a study comparing stakeholder perspectives in Vatnajökull National Park (Iceland) and Daisetsuzan National Park (Japan). The research employed literature review and surveys to assess opinions on conflict, communication, and consensus-building. Despite cultural differences, the results suggest that open dialogue can foster agreement on management issues, offering a scalable model for protected area governance.
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