The environmental impacts of climate change on the UK's heritage sites are widely understood; however, the many consequences - extreme weather and pest invasions, for example - are heavily interconnected. The complexity of tackling this issue is a difficult, albeit important, step in reducing the negative impacts on the country's cultural and natural landmarks.
Fortunately, numerous qualified researchers can use existing data to identify and address problems and work on solutions. However, 'siloed working' practices, where teams within an organisation deliberately isolate their work due to competition, poor communication or structural issues, have hindered significant progress.
The National Commission for UNESCO partnered with the Department of Culture, Media, and Sport to participate in what is known as the Climate Change of UNESCO Heritage, with £1.8 million allocated to the project by the HM Treasury Shared Outcomes Fund.
Hadrian’s Wall has been chosen as one of three sites for its natural and cultural significance. It will cooperate with local communities, stakeholders and other organisations to cultivate and test new methods of partnership working to enhance the quality of the gathered research.
Experts from Newcastle University are set to receive funding to develop new data tools for an ongoing project aimed at preserving Hadrian's Wall. The University, previously associated with similar initiatives, launched a three-year data collection project at 20 research stations on the heritage site in 2019 to combat its gradual degradation.
Experts will create a GIS tool to archive data from archaeological findings, historical records, and tourism information, supporting a broader understanding of the impacts of climate change on Hadrian's Wall.
Additionally, they aim to unite government sectors, public agencies and local communities to collaboratively address national climate challenges effectively and productively.