Climate Change and the Conservation of Archaeological Sites: A Review of Impacts Theory

A theoretical framework predicting climate change impacts on archaeological sites reveals significant vulnerabilities, particularly for buried remains. This study identified key knowledge gaps in current research, especially regarding the effects of climatic shifts on subterranean archaeological features. By applying a matrix of potential impacts to Skellig Michael, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Ireland, it highlighted how rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns could threaten both surface structures and hidden artifacts. The findings underscore the need for targeted conservation strategies that account for these complex interactions, bridging theoretical models with practical site management.

Daly, C. (2011). Climate Change and the Conservation of Archaeological Sites: A Review of Impacts Theory. Conservation and Management of Archaeological Sites, 13(4), 293–310. https://doi.org/10.1179/175355212x13315728646058