Documenting and Publicising Threats to Natural World Heritage Areas

Examining the state of and threats to current natural World Heritage Properties has been identified by IUCN as priority area for action. While IUCN is strengthening its work in this area there is still considerable scope for ENGO’s to make a contribution to IUCN’s understanding of threats to World Heritage sites in ways that are not constrained by UNESCO protocols. Where they have had the resources, ENGO’s have been able to bring considerable scientific and engineering expertise to bear on threats to World Heritage sites of which the proposed Jabiluka uranium mine in Kakadu was a notable example.

Alec is proposing that this area of work be conducted by relevant ENGOs, scientists and other experts and be coordinated through the World Heritage Network. It would be structured in a way to be relevant to and reflect on the adequacy of, the periodic reporting of State Parties on the condition of World Heritage Properties. The resulting report could be utilized by IUCN, the World Heritage Centre, and appropriate delegations. Where relevant it would be publicized. An opportunity would sought to present it to the World Heritage Committee.