The World Heritage Convention

The World Heritage Convention defines the kind of natural or cultural sites which can be considered for inscription on the World Heritage List. These are superlative aspects of the shared global heritage of humanity.

Half a century ago, global visionaries recognised the need to protect sites across our planet of outstanding universal value. Through the United Nations, the World Heritage convention was adopted in 1972. This led to the establishment of the World Heritage list - with some of the first sites inscribed including the Yellowstone National Park and Galapagos Islands. 

There are now more than 1200 sites across our planet reflecting extraordinary aspects of our shared Natural and cultural heritage that are now protected by international law. 

This short film explains the formation of UNESCO and the genesis of the Convention. With a particular focus on sites in Switzerland we can see why the safeguarding of World Heritage sites protects both our collective cultural history and the natural values that allow life to prosper into the future.

Explore the World Heritage List 

James wheeler 9z X Mb E8p I0 unsplash
Image: James Wheeler
Dan Broun
Dan Broun
Kuno Earth Media Centre Manager
Dan Broun is an experienced photo-journalist and passionate advocate for wild nature


Share

You might like...

Natureplaybruny

No toys needed here!

When in nature, toys become unnecessary for engaging and meaningful childs play, explains primary school teacher, Claire Boost.

Read more
Blue-Tongue Lizard

It started rescuing animals in Ghana

I lived in Ghana for a period of my childhood. We would go down to the gullies and rescue animals. That probably started my love of nature. 

Read more
Beautiful Blue Gum

Why old trees are so important for endangered woodland birds

Why are old trees so important for endangered woodland birds? It takes a tree 100 years or more, generally, to start developing hollows. These hollows are critical for nest sites for these birds

Read more
Subantarctic Skua 08837

Macquarie Island: a true wildlife hotspot

“Every time, it’s like the first time. You’re just like a kid in the candy store when you see that much wildlife,” says veteran bird ecologist Dr Eric Woehler, of his more than 10 trips to Macquarie Island. Read about his journey.

Read more

Newsletter

Sign up to keep in touch with articles, updates, events or news from Kuno, your platform for nature