Endangered heritage seen from space

US Geological Survey helps Heritage in Danger

Published on 8 November 2011

Author(s): UNESCOPRESS

Type:  Press release

From Space to Place, An Image Atlas of World Heritage Sites on the “In Danger” List of UNESCO will be launched on 9 November by Director-General, Irina Bokova and U.S. Ambassador to UNESCO David Killion, at the Organization’s Paris Headquarters (10.30 a.m., Ségur Room).

The Atlas was produced by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) in cooperation with UNESCO. It presents detailed satellite photos of the 31 sites on the List of World Heritage in Danger. These sites face a range of threats from pillaging to natural disasters, pollution, mass tourism, and armed conflict.

UNESCO-S. Cadel - Launching From Space to Place, Director-General, Irina Bokova and U.S. Ambassador to UNESCO David Killion.jpg
© UNESCO/S. Cadel - Launching From Space to Place, Director-General, Irina Bokova and U.S. Ambassador to UNESCO David Killion

Satellite imaging has become an important tool for World Heritage site managers, providing invaluable information about the development of sites, evolution of wildlife habitats, human encroachment and agricultural activity, as well as damages caused by climate change.

To help developing countries share the benefits of space technology, UNESCO has established partnerships with leading space agencies including NASA (U.S.A.), the European Space Agency (ESA) and the space agencies of France and Germany, all of which help UNESCO preserve World Heritage.

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