Research Focus

In our goal of bringing awareness to the threats faced by various UNESCO World Heritage Sites, we are shedding light on the different levels of danger each threat embodies, followed by recommendations of possible management plans.

Click the link below to see how we've put our methodology into practice!

Site Studies

Research Structure

1. Identification of Heritage Assets

First, we start by identifying and assessing the heritage value of assets within the UNESCO World Heritage Sites classified as Outstanding Universal Values (OUVs).

2. Assessment of Risks

Risks posing threat and potential damage to the heritage assets are identified. Their danger levels are then assessed based on the framework below to conclude which of these threats should be prioritized.

3. Assessment of Management Plans

Current management plans and mitigation measures are evaluated for their efficacies. We also look into the various stakeholders involved or empowered in conservation of the sites.

4. Recommendations of Management Strategies

Finally, we look into the gaps within current conservation strategies. In explaining their lack of efficacy, we propose broad improved measures that could be implemented.

Framework for Assessment of Danger Levels

In assessing the threats faced by UNESCO World Heritage Sites (WHS), we recognize that danger comes in multiple forms. Some commonalities between our case studies include Proximity, Frequency and Mitigation Strategies.

Proximity refers to the area affected by the specific threats. For example, how far from demarcated UNESCO WHS zones do fires occur? Do floods affect demarcated zones directly, or have there been sufficient drainage systems built within?

In conjunction, questions pertaining to Frequency focus on how often these threats affect the sites and surrounding areas. Additionally, do they cause permanent, irreversible damage?

Lastly, we question if implemented Mitigation Strategies are sufficiently effective, or if their lack of efficacy inherently predisposes UNESCO WHS to more danger.

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Click here to see how we've applied the framework into our case studies!