Lessons from the Edge: Assessing the impact and efficacy of digital technologies to stress urgency about climate change and cultural heritage globally

A collaborative digital project, Heritage on the Edge, revealed significant global engagement with climate change impacts at UNESCO World Heritage Sites but also highlighted gaps in reach, particularly in low and middle-income countries. The initiative, led by CyArk, Google Arts and Culture, and ICOMOS between 2018 and 2020, used advanced digital techniques to showcase unique local responses to climate challenges across five sites in Bangladesh, Peru, Rapa Nui, Scotland, and Tanzania. Analysis of web analytics over six months post-launch underscored the potential for digital platforms in climate communication while emphasizing the need for more equitable partnerships and broader geographical engagement strategies. The findings offer actionable lessons for future projects aiming to leverage technology for cultural heritage preservation and public awareness.

Megarry, W., & Hadick, K. (2021). Lessons from the Edge: Assessing the impact and efficacy of digital technologies to stress urgency about climate change and cultural heritage globally. The Historic Environment: Policy & Practice, 12(3-4), 336–355. https://doi.org/10.1080/17567505.2021.1944571