Preserving Legacies is a global, action-oriented initiative dedicated to equipping local leaders with the scientific knowledge and technical skills needed to develop place and people-based climate adaptation strategies for cultural heritage. As climate change increasingly threatens both natural and cultural heritage worldwide, urgent action is required to safeguard these invaluable sites and landscapes. Preserving Legacies addresses these challenges by empowering communities with the tools and training necessary to protect heritage sites in a changing climate.
The initiative fosters communities of practice, knowledge exchange, and creating training resources for heritage professionals in the face of climate change. To date, more than 40 site custodians in over 20 countries have been trained to assess climate vulnerabilities and develop adaptation plans for their heritage sites. The programme promotes collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and improved climate literacy for conservation planning worldwide.
Preserving Legacies is supported by the National Geographic Society, with ICOMOS as its primary partner and fiscal manager. The initiative is driven by a diverse leadership team and an expanding network of site custodians, many of whom are members of ICOMOS National Committees, International Scientific Committees, and the ICOMOS Climate Action Working Group.
