Unesco World Heritage: The sites most at risk from climate change – and which are in the UK?

Sign up to Simon Calder’s free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calder’s Travel email Get Simon Calder’s Travel email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Four Unesco World Heritage sites in the UK are among those at the most risk of climate change devastation, a study has found. Using Climate X’s ‘Spectra’ platform algorithm to determine how climate change will affect 500 natural and man-made heritage sites, the analysts discovered how the sites would fare in eight global warming scenarios. open image in gallery The sacred Sansa Buddhist Mountain Monasteries in South Korea are at risk of river and surface flooding Taking the top spot at the most at-risk Unesco World Heritage sites is the Sansa Buddhist Mountain Monasteries in South Korea, sacred temples that were established between the 7th and 9th centuries but also structures that analysis believe could be at risk of river and surfacing flooding. “While the loss of these cultural treasures – many of which have endured for millennia – would, of course, be devastating, it’s also vital to remember the real societal and economic impact of climate change is happening in the here and now.” “Our findings serve as a stark warning for governments, preservationists, and the global community to prioritise the safeguarding of our planet – to preserve our ancient monuments and our current assets and infrastructure – and to protect life today and into the future.” For more travel news and advice, listen to Simon Calder’s podcast