Mismatched canal conservation and the authorized heritage discourse in urban China: a case of the Hangzhou Section of the Grand Canal

Conservation efforts for the Hangzhou Section of China's Grand Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2014, have been hindered by mismatched approaches that fail to capture its unique values. The study reveals that while Chinese authorities often follow international guidelines—such as those from UNESCO—they lack tailored evaluation systems and principles for this type of heritage asset. This disconnect stems from ideological influences, including the dominance of Western conservation values, and institutional tendencies toward strict government control over projects. Additionally, local governments prioritize economic benefits over sustainable preservation, often sidelining community interests in the process. The research employs an authorized heritage discourse (AHD) framework to analyze these challenges, highlighting how current strategies undermine the Grand Canal's distinct cultural significance.

Zhang, M., & Lenzer, J. H. (2019). Mismatched canal conservation and the authorized heritage discourse in urban China: a case of the Hangzhou Section of the Grand Canal. International Journal of Heritage Studies, 26(2), 105–119. https://doi.org/10.1080/13527258.2019.1608458