The UNESCO report analyzed heritage sites, geoparks, and biosphere reserves from over 2,200 locations, with particular attention given to the tropics.
The world's environmental heritage is at serious risk of degradation due to natural disasters and urban pressure. This warning comes from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), which has just released the first global assessment of more than 2,260 World Heritage Sites, Biosphere Reserves, and Global Geoparks.
The UNESCO report analyzed heritage sites, geoparks, and biosphere reserves in more than 2,200 locations, with the tropics receiving particular attention. The report, cited by RTP (Portuguese public television), also indicates a 40 percent increase in sites affected by disasters.
“Despite the growing problems, wildlife populations remain relatively stable within UNESCO-designated sites, contrary to the global trend of a sharp decline in biodiversity,” reads the Portuguese broadcaster's website.
It also notes that the document underlines that these sites are not just protected areas, but living spaces, fundamental for drinking water, food security, employment, sustainable tourism and the climate resilience of local communities.
(By MozaVibe)
