Applied Lichenology

Mohammad Sohrabi

Applied lichenology is the practical and interdisciplinary branch of lichen science that explores how lichens and their biological, chemical, and ecological characteristics can be utilized to address real-world challenges. From biomonitoring air pollution to conserving cultural heritage, lichens have emerged as powerful tools for science, industry, and environmental management.

Lichens are sensitive to environmental changes, especially air quality and climate shifts, making them ideal bioindicators. They are widely used in environmental monitoring programs to assess pollution levels, track ecological health, and evaluate the impacts of urbanization and industrial activities. Their responses to pollutants like sulfur dioxide, heavy metals, and nitrogen compounds provide valuable data that inform public policy and conservation strategies.

In the realm of cultural heritage, applied lichenology addresses the biodeterioration of historic monuments, stoneworks, and ancient structures. Lichens can contribute to both the decay and preservation of cultural sites, and understanding their biology is essential for developing sustainable conservation methods. Lichen-based studies are increasingly used to balance preservation efforts with ecological considerations.

Lichens also have economic potential. Their secondary metabolites show promise in pharmaceutical development, cosmetics, natural dyes, and biotechnological innovation. Applied lichenology explores how to harness these compounds ethically and sustainably, with attention to biodiversity protection and legal frameworks such as the Nagoya Protocol.

This webpage serves as a gateway into the world of applied lichenology, showcasing its relevance across environmental sciences, conservation, public health, and industry. Whether you're a researcher, environmental consultant, cultural heritage professional, or policy-maker, you’ll find here a hub of knowledge and resources dedicated to the practical applications of lichen science.

• Ethnolichenology: Cultural Knowledge and Traditional Practices
  
  

• Lichens as Biofactories: Extraction of Secondary Metabolites
  
  

• Lichens in Bioprospecting and Drug Discovery Pipelines
  
  

• Industrial Applications of Lichen-Derived Compounds
  
  

• Lichens in Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals
  
  

• Lichen-Based Biodegradable Materials and Packaging
  
  

• Controlled Cultivation and Biotechnology of Lichens
  
  

• Bioinspired Design: Lessons from Lichen Morphology and Chemistry
  
  

• Lichens in Environmental Consulting and Policy
  
  

• Applied Lichenometry in Archaeology and Geomorphology
  
  

• Lichens in Heritage Science: Monitoring and Preventive Conservation
  
  

• Integrating Lichens into Climate Adaptation Strategies
  
  

• Market Development for Lichen-Based Commercial Products
  
  

• Citizen Science Tools for Monitoring Lichen Health
  
  

• Educational Outreach: Designing Curriculum Around Lichens
  
  

• Genomic Resources and Bioinformatics Tools in Applied Lichenology
  
  

• Lichens in the Cosmetics and Skincare Industry
  
  

• Risk Assessment and Sustainability of Lichen Harvesting
  
  

• Cross-Sectoral Collaborations in Lichen-Based Innovation
  
  

• Building Applied Lichenology as a Transdisciplinary Field