The main work carried out during the project was the development of an empirically grounded modelling framework for cultural loss, implemented in the model EMBERS. This model captures, in a simple and generalisable way, the loss of complex cultural practices under conditions of disruption. It was initially motivated by the case of fire use among Neanderthals, where archaeological evidence suggests that campfire use disappeared at some sites during cold climatic periods. However, the model is designed to be broadly applicable and can also describe the loss of contemporary skills, crafts, and technologies observed in different societies when practices become rare, isolated, or maintained by only a few specialists.
The model represents the mechanisms of cultural loss using four empirically motivated parameters: the mean frequency of use of a practice and its variability, the rate of group memory or skill decay, and the number of skilled practitioners. It follows a “use it or lose it” framework, in which irregular or disrupted practice increases the probability of long-term loss. The main results show that variability in use and memory decay are the primary drivers of cultural loss, while population size plays a comparatively minor role. These findings challenge dominant theories that emphasise demography as the main factor shaping cultural complexity.
In addition to the core modelling work, the project developed conceptual and interdisciplinary frameworks linking cultural loss to sustainability and resilience research. This included analysing how the loss of specific practices can produce cascading effects across eco-cultural systems, particularly under environmental shocks. The project also advanced the concept of “cultural keystone practices” as a way to identify and measure culturally important activities that support social and ecological well-being.
The project produced the core EMBERS modelling publication and several additional manuscripts under preparation, including modelling extensions, interdisciplinary syntheses, and conceptual frameworks. The EMBERS paper generated interest from the press and science communication outlets, contributing to the visibility of the project and stimulating public discussion on the topic of cultural loss.
Results were disseminated through participation in six international conferences, with presentations at three of them, as well as seminars at host institutions and an invited colloquium. A workshop involving twelve researchers from different disciplines was also organised to explore modelling approaches to shocks and cultural adaptation. The EU funding was acknowledged in all dissemination and communication activities.
Further exploitation and dissemination activities include public-facing outputs, a general-audience article currently under revision, educational videos explaining the project’s results, and a draft Wikipedia entry on cultural loss.
