Does World Heritage Site inscription lead to increased visitation and greater impacts?
Inscription of a site on the World Heritage List may increase public awareness of the site and its outstanding values, which has the potential to increase tourist activities at the site. However, if these activities are well planned and organized, and as long as they respect sustainable tourism principles, increased tourism can bring important funds both to the site and to the local economy. Increased tourism always carries the risk of harming the very attributes that led to a site’s inscription on the World Heritage List. Through sustainable tourism and a publicly developed plan to identify appropriate levels and types of use, visitors to World Heritage destinations can learn about natural, cultural and historical characteristics while still respecting the environment and local culture. In addition to building environmental awareness and conserving local ecosystems, sustainable tourism can also generate income and employment for local communities. For more information: If you have any
