World heritage : benefits beyond borders /

Marking the 40th anniversary of the World Heritage Convention, this collection of 26 case studies focuses upon a changing paradigm for the recognition, treatment, and management of UNESCO's World Heritage List scheduled sites. The authors examine five interrelated topics with examples from the world's regions: the need to consider the simultaneous blend of natural and cultural features at World Heritage sites; the challenge of expanding urbanism on World Heritage properties; the expansion of indigenous engagement in the World Heritage designation and management process; the full participation and partnerships of living communities in World Heritage planning and preservation; and the role of World Heritage List statuses in community development and sustainability. Throughout, the discussion brings triple bottom-line awareness (i.e., the combined goals of social, economic, and environmental sustainability) to the foreground. This volume supports the principle that the benefits of World Heritage site designation accrue to local populations. The original principle of the convention--outstanding universal value--now couples with a concern for a multidisciplinary holistic conservation ethic focusing upon the need for local community engagement and development. No longer a luxury, heritage is crucial to sustainable development, community well-being, and mutual understanding. Summing Up: Recommended. Graduate students, faculty, professionals. S. R. Martin Michigan Technological University