Climatic and Environmental Threats to Cultural Heritage

The book Climatic and Environmental Threats to Cultural Heritage examines the challenges that environmental change poses to the preservation of cultural material, highlighting the importance of records and narratives in informing decisions. It brings together a diverse range of stakeholders to explore their thinking and actions in relation to climate change and environmental risk, and considers how local knowledge can have international application.

Format: Hardback
Length: 182 pages
Publication date: 04 November 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Climatic and Environmental Threats to Cultural Heritage delves into the formidable challenges posed by environmental change, encompassing both sudden and long-term impacts, to the preservation of cultural material. Recognizing the diverse nature of human cultural heritage across various collecting institutions, heritage sites, and communities, the book emphasizes the crucial role of accessible records and narratives in shaping decisions for the preservation of this invaluable knowledge. By bringing together a diverse range of stakeholders, including those with an interest in and responsibility for the care of cultural heritage material and places of cultural heritage value, the book explores their perspectives and actions regarding climate change and environmental risk. Sloggett and Scott highlight the shared commitment among stakeholders to leverage their expertise to confront the challenges posed by environmental change to the future of our cultural heritage and our cultural identity. Recognizing the global nature of this challenge, the book also considers how local knowledge can have international applications.

This comprehensive book appeals to scholars, conservationists, archaeologists, archivists, anthropologists, climate change experts, and practitioners alike. It provides valuable insights into the effects of environmental change on cultural heritage across the globe, equipping readers with the knowledge and tools necessary to address these challenges effectively.

The book is organized into five chapters, each exploring different aspects of the threat posed by environmental change to cultural heritage. Chapter 1 provides an introduction to the topic, outlining the significance of cultural heritage and the challenges it faces. Chapter 2 explores the impact of climate change on cultural heritage, including the effects of temperature rise, sea level rise, extreme weather events, and ocean acidification. Chapter 3 examines the strategies and approaches used to mitigate the threats to cultural heritage, including conservation, restoration, and adaptive reuse. Chapter 4 discusses the role of local communities and indigenous peoples in the preservation of cultural heritage, recognizing their unique knowledge and practices. Chapter 5 concludes by highlighting the importance of international cooperation and collaboration in addressing the global challenges posed by environmental change to cultural heritage.

Throughout the book, case studies and examples from various regions and cultural contexts are used to illustrate the challenges and successes in preserving cultural heritage. These examples showcase the diverse range of cultural practices and traditions that are at risk, as well as the innovative solutions and strategies employed to protect and preserve them.

Climatic and Environmental Threats to Cultural Heritage is a timely and essential resource for anyone interested in the preservation of cultural heritage. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the threats posed by environmental change and offers practical solutions and strategies for mitigating these risks. By highlighting the importance of local knowledge and international cooperation, the book encourages a collective effort to protect and preserve the world's cultural heritage for future generations.

Weight: 520g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367756383