Some of the world’s most iconic natural and cultural sites are also a haven for thousands of endangered species, the UN Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) said on Thursday.
Although properties protected under the World Heritage Convention make up less than one per cent of the Earth’s surface, they harbour more than 20 per cent of the planet’s biodiversity, new research by UNESCO and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has revealed.
The UN agency has urged the 195 States party to the treaty to step up efforts to conserve them in the face of climate change and the threat of increased species loss.
“These 1,157 sites are not only historically and culturally outstanding, they are also critical to the preservation of the diversity of life on Earth, maintaining essential ecosystem services, and addressing climate disruption,” said the UNESCO Director General, Audrey Azoulay.
‘Last line of defence’
UNESCO World Heritage sites – ranging from the Great Barrier Reef in Australia to the Great Wall of China – contain more than 75,000 species of plants and trees, and over 30,000 species of mammals, birds, fishes, reptiles and amphibians.
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They are estimated to protect over 20,000 endangered species, including up to a third of all elephants, tigers and pandas, and at least one-tenth of great apes, lions and rhinos.
For some species, such as Javan Rhinos, Pink Iguanas, Sumatran Orangutans and Mountain Gorillas, they are “the last line of defence against extinction”, the agency said.
The World Heritage Convention confers the highest level of international protection to these locations, found across 167 countries.
‘The clock is ticking’
The 1972 treaty has enabled successful conservation initiatives, such as those undertaken in the Kaziranga National Park in India and Chitwan National Park in Nepal, where the number of Greater one-horned Rhinos has doubled to some 4,000 since the mid-1980s.
However, UNESCO stressed the urgent need to strengthen conservation measures, warning that “the clock is ticking for immediate action.”
Every 1°C increase in global temperature could double the number of endangered species threatened by dangerous climate conditions.
Protection and training
“Given their role as vital biodiversity hotspots, UNESCO World Heritage sites must be protected at all costs by the States Parties of the Convention,” the agency said.
UNESCO encouraged countries to prioritize World Heritage sites in their national biodiversity strategies and action plans, in line with a global agreement reached last year.
The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework aims to halt and reverse nature loss through targets that include protecting 30 per cent of the planet’s lands, coastal areas and inland waters by the end of the decade.
UNESCO said that all World Heritage site managers will be trained in climate change adaptation strategies by 2025, and all sites will have climate adaptation plans in place by 2029.
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As a conservationist, I strongly believe that protecting UNESCO World Heritage Sites is crucial in safeguarding the planet’s biodiversity. These sites are indeed the last line of defense against species extinction and should be preserved for future generations.
Wow, this is incredible! I had no idea UNESCO World Heritage Sites played such a crucial role in preserving biodiversity. How can we as individuals contribute to their conservation efforts?
Hey EmilySmith, it’s truly fascinating how UNESCO World Heritage Sites serve as crucial habitats for a plethora of species. As individuals, we can support their conservation through responsible tourism, spreading awareness, and advocating for sustainable practices in our daily lives. Every small action counts towards protecting these vital ecosystems!
As a conservation enthusiast, I believe it is crucial to prioritize the preservation of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These sites not only showcase our rich cultural history but also serve as vital sanctuaries for endangered species. It’s imperative that we take immediate action to ensure these sites continue to safeguard biodiversity and combat climate change.
As an avid nature lover, it’s crucial that we take a stand to protect these UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The rich biodiversity they hold is a treasure worth safeguarding for future generations. Let’s all do our part in preserving these natural wonders!
I believe it is crucial for all nations to unite in preserving these invaluable UNESCO World Heritage Sites. They are not just historical or cultural landmarks, but vital sanctuaries for countless endangered species. The time to take action is now before it’s too late.
As an environmental enthusiast, it’s crucial that we take definitive action to preserve these unique sites for future generations. The alarming rate of species decline necessitates urgent global cooperation and stronger conservation efforts. Together, we can be the voice for those voiceless species on the brink of extinction.
Could you clarify how UNESCO plans to address the threat of increased species loss at these World Heritage sites?
UNESCO is collaborating with local conservation organizations and governmental bodies to implement strict protection measures and sustainable management practices at the World Heritage sites. By fostering partnerships and raising awareness about the importance of preserving these fragile ecosystems, UNESCO aims to mitigate the impacts of species loss and ensure the long-term survival of biodiversity in these invaluable locations.
Preserving UNESCO World Heritage Sites is crucial for safeguarding our planet’s biodiversity. We must take urgent action to protect these invaluable areas for future generations.
As a nature enthusiast, I strongly believe that we must prioritize the preservation of UNESCO World Heritage Sites for the sake of our planet’s biodiversity. These sites serve as the last line of defense in protecting endangered species and maintaining our ecosystem’s balance.
I strongly believe that preserving UNESCO World Heritage Sites is crucial for protecting our planet’s biodiversity and cultural heritage. It is our responsibility to take action now to ensure these sites remain protected for future generations.
Isn’t it astonishing how these UNESCO World Heritage Sites play such a crucial role in preserving our planet’s biodiversity? What more can be done to ensure their protection?