UNESCO Recommends Adding Venice to List of World Heritage Sites in Danger
Venice, the iconic island city known for its architectural splendor and rich cultural heritage, may soon be added to UNESCO’s List of World Heritage sites in danger. The United Nations’ cultural protection agency is calling attention to the threats posed by climate change, mass tourism, and rapid urban development.
The recommendation comes as UNESCO published a report on Monday ahead of its World Heritage Committee meeting in September. The list identifies sites that are “threatened by serious and specific dangers,” such as armed conflict or natural disasters. Other sites on the list include Odessa in Ukraine and the Everglades in Florida.
Venice, built across 118 small islands, has been a designated World Heritage site since 1987. However, the city now faces multiple challenges, including the impact of climate change. Experts have warned that rising seas and extreme weather events could submerge the city entirely by 2100. Record floods in 2019 damaged cultural sites, prompting the installation of sea walls and glass barriers to protect against future deluges.
The city’s vulnerability to climate change is compounded by the issue of mass tourism. Venice attracts around 25 million visitors annually, placing immense pressure on its delicate ecosystem. The Italian government has taken steps to reduce tourism and pollution, banning cruise ships from approaching the island and planning to implement a day-trip tourist fee. However, UNESCO deems these measures insufficient and calls for more sustainable solutions.
The proposed designation of Venice as a World Heritage site in danger is a significant alarm bell for the city and the Italian government, highlighting the urgent need for action. Environmental activists have previously criticized UNESCO for not addressing the multitude of crises facing Venice when it narrowly avoided the endangered-heritage list in 2021.
Adding a site to the endangered category can serve as a catalyst for finding solutions. UNESCO cites the example of Belize’s barrier reefs, which were added to the list in 2009. Through a partnership with UNESCO, the government developed a plan to halt oil exploration and drilling, effectively eliminating a major threat to the site.
While UNESCO’s recommendation for Venice raises concerns about the city’s future, it also presents an opportunity for international support and collaborative efforts to ensure its preservation. As the World Heritage Committee convenes in September, the fate of Venice will be discussed, and decisions will be made to safeguard this unique cultural gem for future generations.