Global perspective Human stories

Atlas provides view from space of endangered UNESCO heritage sites

UNESCO Director-General, Irina Bokova (second left) and US Ambassador David Killion at launching of From Space to Place
UNESCO Director-General, Irina Bokova (second left) and US Ambassador David Killion at launching of From Space to Place

Atlas provides view from space of endangered UNESCO heritage sites

An atlas showcasing detailed satellite images of world’s heritage sites in danger was launched today at the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) headquarters in Paris.

The atlas, produced by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) in cooperation with UNESCO, highlights sites which face a range of threats, from pillaging to natural disasters, pollution, mass tourism and armed conflict.

The atlas was launched by Director-General of UNESCO Irina Bokova and United States Ambassador to UNESCO David Killion.

According to a news release issued by UNESCO, From Space to Place, An Image Atlas of World Heritage Sites on the ‘In Danger’ List, seeks to provide valuable information about the development of the sites.

In recent years, satellite images have become an important tool for world heritage site managers to track the evolution of wildlife habitats, human encroachment and agricultural activity, and damages caused by climate change.

To make the most of this technology UNESCO has established partnerships with leading space agencies such as NASA, the European Space Agency (ESA) and agencies in France and Germany.