Global Network on Culture Heritage Conservation Under Climate Change

Giovanni Castaldo, Alberto Celani (Principal Investigators)

The increasing impact of climate change exposes significant vulnerabilities of cultural heritage sites and heritage-connected communities. However, addressing this issue remains the considerable challenges, including the urgent need to develop climate mitigation and adaptation strategies that respect the integrity and authenticity of cultural heritage while aligning with local contexts. Recognizing these challenges, the Global Network on Culture Heritage Conservation Under Climate Change (Go2CHANGE) is committed to transforming cultural heritage from being "victims" to "victors." The Action aims to explore the question: What are the most effective methodologies and approaches for developing a locally adaptable strategic framework for climate action plans aimed at preserving cultural heritage sites? Undertaking this question, Go2CHANGE has invited a group of experts and relevant stakeholders to focus on four main issues: climate risk assessment, climate change adaptation, climate change mitigation, and community involvement and capacity building. By using a group of cultural heritage cities in Europe, each representing different type of heritage and facing different climate risk threats, the Action seeks to identify and analyse the best methodologies and approaches, ensuring that these frameworks are tailored to the specific needs and conditions of different cultural heritage sites in Europe. Understanding and transforming best practices into a blueprint for mitigating the adverse effects of climate change on cultural heritage is vital in collaboration with site managers, conservationists, local municipalities, local communities, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), art and culture organisations and other stakeholders involved in heritage management. Go2CHANGE will contribute to bridging those significant gaps and fostering innovative, multistakeholder solutions to ensure a just and sustainable climate resilient transition for cultural heritage.

Contribution to SDG: 11, 13