Publications
The Flowers Opened the Way
Arctic flowering plants play a significant and often overlooked role in shaping human experiences and cultural narratives, challenging traditional notions of mastery and inspiring euphoria and understanding. This study examines the works of 19th- and 20th-century voyagers, writers, artists, and botanists from Norway, Britain, and the United States to illustrate how these plants influenced outsiders' perceptions of the Arctic, often leading to a confusion of categories and a deeper appreciation for Indigenous knowledge. The research connects historical plant investigations with modern initiatives like the Greenland Arboretum in Narsarsuaq and the Kujataa UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting the complex cultural politics of current 'Arctic greening' efforts.
The Application of RGB, Multispectral, and Thermal Imagery to Document and Monitor Archaeological Sites in the Arctic: A Case Study from South Greenland
A combination of RGB imaging and digital surface models proves highly effective for identifying and mapping archaeological ruins and structures, offering cultural heritage managers a rapid, non-invasive tool to document vulnerable Arctic sites. The study also demonstrates that RGB and NDVI maps can effectively monitor vegetation damage caused by human activity, addressing the dual threats of climate change and increased tourism. However, attempts to estimate soil moisture content using thermal imagery and the Temperature Vegetation Dryness Index (TVDI) yielded limited success in Arctic contexts. Conducted at two UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kujataa, Greenland, this research highlights the potential of drone-based remote sensing for archaeological documentation while underscoring the need for tailored approaches to monitor environmental impacts in fragile polar landscapes.
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World Heritage Explorer > World Heritage Research > World Heritage Sites > Kujataa Greenland: Norse and Inuit Farming at the Edge of the Ice Cap