Extreme weather events threatens natural world heritage sites: study

Climate change is putting unprecedented pressure on the world’s natural heritage sites, with a study warning that nearly all of these irreplaceable locations will face extreme climate events by the century’s end if emissions aren’t significantly reduced.

World Heritage faces climate crisis

A study published on December 5, 2024, in Communications Earth & Environment analysed the vulnerability of 250 natural world heritage sites to extreme climate events under four future scenarios. It found that, under the highest emissions scenario (SSP585), 248 out of 250 sites would face extreme heat, heavy rainfall, and droughts by 2100.

"Our results show that natural world heritage sites will face more extreme climate events by the century's end, especially under a high-emission scenario," said Dr. Ruixia Yang, the study's lead author. "This is a serious threat to the Outstanding Universal Value of these sites, which are an irreplaceable legacy to humanity."

The study identified forests as vulnerable, with many natural world heritage forest sites expected to suffer from compound extreme climate events, like heatwaves followed by drought. These sites risk being unable to recover, leading to irreversible ecological damage.

Tropical regions, Heatwave impact

Tropical regions, rich in biodiversity, are among the most vulnerable to high temperatures, according to the study. Researchers pinpointed 14 natural world heritage sites in these areas with fragile ecosystems needing urgent attention. These sites are in South America, mainland Africa, and small islands, including the Okavango Delta in Botswana and Mount Kenya National Park.

The authors stressed that these sites, vital for global biodiversity, are increasingly susceptible to extreme climate events. “These ecosystems cannot thrive under extreme heat and compounded weather events,” explained Dr. Bengang Li, co-author of the study. “We must act now to protect them before irreversible damage is done.”

The study underscores the urgent need for global action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and develop strategies to help these sites adapt to climate change, including restoring degraded ecosystems, improving water management, and protecting vulnerable species.

"To minimise the loss of irreplaceable values at these sites, we must act immediately," Dr. Yang emphasized. "Without substantial emissions reduction and proactive adaptation measures, many sites will face irreversible damage."

The study highlights the compound effects of simultaneous extreme events. For example, a heatwave followed by heavy rainfall can disrupt ecosystems, hindering recovery.

Act now to save heritage

This study’s findings echo previous research on the threats of climate change to world heritage sites. The Great Barrier Reef, for instance, has experienced severe coral bleaching due to rising ocean temperatures.

The study highlights the importance of protecting natural world heritage sites for future generations. These sites are significant for their natural beauty, biodiversity, and cultural and spiritual importance. "We have a responsibility to preserve these treasures for future generations," said Dr. Li.

The study’s findings highlight the implications of climate change on global heritage conservation. 16 natural world heritage sites are on the List of World Heritage in Danger, with climate change as the fastest-growing threat.

Lake Turkana National Parks in Kenya, on the World Heritage List of Danger since 2018, is one example. A 2021 United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) report projected that climate change could lead to more frequent flooding in the region, affecting the park’s delicate ecosystem.

With climate change worsening challenges for heritage sites, the study authors call for immediate global cooperation. "We must reduce emissions and implement adaptation strategies to protect these invaluable heritage sites," Dr. Yang concluded.

The study's findings are a call to action for governments, conservation organisations, and individuals to work together to protect our planet's natural heritage. We must act now to reduce emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change to ensure that these irreplaceable treasures are preserved for future generations.

As the time to prevent the worst effects of climate change narrows, the study is a reminder that protecting natural world heritage sites must be prioritised in global climate action strategies.

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