Conservation & Livelihoods

World Heritage sites belong to us all—they represent not only our past but also our future. In 1972, UNESCO adopted the Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage. Now there are more than 870 World Heritage sites around the world. The World Heritage Convention is among the most universally ratified UN treaties and the sites are important to not only understanding our past but also protecting our heritage for the future of humanity. Helping to build sustainable communities in and around these sites will ensure that the sites are protected and enjoyed by future generations. Through greater education about the positive impacts of sustainable tourism, we can also preserve the natural biodiversity of each site and further ensure the survival of these wonders of the world.

PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

Tourism is the world’s largest industry, and constantly growing. One in every 12 jobs is tourism related, and tourism-related activities generate more than $3.6 trillion a year. Yet, all the impacts of tourism aren’t positive. Blatant disregard for the environmental and cultural impacts of travel on World Heritage sites has led to site degradation, and unless we act quickly many of the sites will not recover. Promoting sustainable travel is a way to encourage responsible travel and help protect World Heritage sites. Learn more »

COMMUNITY-BASED ENTERPRISES

Fostering small, local businesses and helping them better promote their goods and services is a tangible way to have a positive impact on the communities around World Heritage sites. By doing this, we can help ensure that local customs and cultures are maintained, jobs are created and communities grow, sustainably. Learn more »

PROMOTING MARKET ACCESS

Local producers and manufacturers are an important source of products for businesses around World Heritage sites. Working with governments, corporations and other partners, we are currently exploring how these local-based entrepreneurs are ensured fair and equal access to the global marketplace. Learn more »

LATEST STORY OF IMPACT

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    Rebuilding lives and livelihoods in Mexico

    Area of Involvement: Sustainable Development

    When a category 5 hurricane devastated the mostly Mayan community of Sian Ka'an, Mexico, we appealed to our supporters and partners.  The response was overwhelming to help rebuild this World Heritage site.

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Latest Video

The Heroes of Virunga National Park

Virunga National Park is both the oldest and the largest national park in Africa, and it is the continent’s longest inscribed World Heritage site. However, years of armed conflict and poaching have not only put the site itself in danger, but also the lives of the park rangers that guard one of the last strongholds of the endangered mountain gorilla.

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