Huangshan Dialogue on UNESCO-designated Sites and Sustainable Development kicks off

The fourth Huangshan Dialogue on UNESCO-designated Sites and Sustainable Development kicked off in Huangshan city in Anhui province on June 29.

The two-day event brought together over 200 participants from more than 10 international organizations and 20 countries, including decision makers, researchers, managers, and practitioners.

The aim of the dialogue was to discuss the application of space technology in the conservation and management of World Heritage Sites, World Biosphere Reserves, and Global Geoparks in line with the goals of the World Heritage Convention and the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

During the dialogue, eight sub-sessions were held to address various topics such as the protection of listed heritage through digital means, spatial monitoring and assessment, collaborative management, disaster prevention and mitigation, climate change, cultural and tourism integration, heritage education, and space archaeology.

A special session was also held to discuss the declaration, management, and sustainable development of UNESCO-listed heritage.

During the meeting, the Environmental Context of World Cultural Heritage along the Silk Road was released and the ceremony for the HIST Award on Best Practice in Sustainable Development of UNESCO-designated Sites was held. The Huangshan Mountain Scenic Area was among the winners of the award.

The Huangshan Dialogue aims to provide a platform for exchange and cooperation among UNESCO-listed properties, facilitate practical application of space technology, and contribute to the sustainable development of listed sites. This event also marks the first time international tourism organizations are participating in the dialogue.