UNESCO study highlights role of World Heritage Convention in biodiversity conservation

The report underlines the significance of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in safeguarding biodiversity

UNESCO study highlights role of World Heritage Convention in biodiversity conservation UNESCO World Heritage Sites harbour over 20 pc of mapped global species

A new study conducted by UNESCO and global conservation organisation IUCN highlights that though they occupy less than 1 pc of Earth’s surface, UNESCO World Heritage Sites are home to over 75,000 species of plants and trees and over 30,000 species of animals.

A study conducted by International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), a global conservation organisation, and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has highlighted the vital role played by the World Heritage Convention in protecting biodiversity.
In a press statement, UNESCO says that the UNESCO and IUCN assessment of the status and trends of species reveals that UNESCO World Heritage sites make up less than 1 pc of the Earth’s surface, yet they harbour more than 20 pc of mapped global species richness, including more than 75,000 species of plants including trees and over 30,000 species of mammals, birds, fishes, reptiles and amphibians.

These sites serve as formidable natural observatories for advancing scientific knowledge thanks to the concentration of over half of all mammals, birds and hard corals species in the world. They are also an endless source of inspiration for new environmental protection initiatives, adds the statement.

“This study demonstrates the importance of UNESCO World Heritage sites in protecting biodiversity. These 1,157 sites are not only historically and culturally outstanding, they are also critical to the preservation of the diversity of life on Earth, maintaining essential ecosystem services, and addressing climate disruption,” says Audrey Azoulay, Director General of UNESCO.