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Protection of cultural heritage

Climate change poses serious risks to cultural heritage in Small Island States. Rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and stronger storms threaten archaeological sites, historic buildings, and landscapes. Higher temperatures accelerate material degradation, while floods and hurricanes can cause structural damage. Protecting heritage involves mapping vulnerable sites, assessing risks, and integrating disaster preparedness into cultural policies. Regional initiatives like the Caribbean Cultural Emergency Response Hub and UNESCO’s programs support these efforts.

For example, Aruba has highlighted the preservation of Amerindian drawings and Gold Rush ruins and the prevention of quarrying of limestone features as priorities in preserving cultural heritage. Natural landscapes and wildlife can also be considered cultural heritage. 

Institutions supporting (regional/global) climate & heritage research and action include:

Feasibility & Local Applicability

This option is feasible because institutions and networks already exist. The institutions mentioned above  provide technical support, training, and coordination. Local governments can build on these frameworks by embedding heritage protection in climate adaptation plans and tourism strategies. For islands like Aruba, Curaçao, and St. Martin, where heritage is central to identity and tourism, integrating protection measures into urban planning and coastal management is practical and culturally relevant.

Co-benefits

Preserving cultural heritage strengthens social cohesion and community identity, which are vital for resilience. It also supports tourism, a major economic driver for these islands, creating jobs and sustaining livelihoods. Heritage-based adaptation fosters knowledge exchange and regional collaboration, while traditional practices can inform sustainable solutions. In some cases, heritage sites contribute to ecosystem services, such as coastal vegetation linked to historic landscapes.

Equity & Vulnerability Considerations

Local island populations and many different local groups can be considered heritage custodians, and should be included in decision making. Their traditional knowledge can guide effective adaptation. Equity also means ensuring that benefits from heritage-based tourism reach local communities, not just external investors. Participatory governance helps avoid marginalization and builds trust in adaptation processes.

Costs

Medium – High | Costs range from medium to high, depending on the scale of interventions. Activities like structural reinforcement, digital documentation, and emergency preparedness require significant investment.

Case studies & Examples

Literature

Adaptation Options Overview