Protecting Cultural Heritage Against Hydroclimatic Extremes: The SD-WISHEES Project
Cultural heritage, as defined by UNESCO, encompasses the legacy we receive from the past, live with in the present, and pass on to future generations. This includes not only monuments and collections of objects but also intangible culture and natural sites. It is an invaluable resource that connects humanity to its history, identity, and traditions. However, this legacy faces growing threats from hydroclimatic extreme events, such as floods, droughts, and storms, exacerbated by climate change.
Recognizing the urgency to safeguard cultural heritage, the European Commission has funded the SD-WISHEES (Supporting and Developing WIdening Strategies to tackle Hydroclimatic Extreme Events: impacts and Sustainable solutions for cultural heritage).
Objectives of SD-WISHEES
Launched in January 2023, and running till the end of 2026, the project brings together 16 partners from 11 countries, including six widening countries, to address the pressing issue of protecting cultural heritage from the increasing frequency and severity of hydroclimatic extreme events, such as droughts and floods. Some of the SD-WISHEES partners are also members of the Water JPI i.e. ANR (France), MUR (Italy) and UEFISCDI (Romania).
The overarching aim of SD-WISHEES is to strengthen collaboration among Research Funding Organizations (RFOs) in Europe and beyond. By enabling strategic coordination and cross-sector collaboration between national research and innovation funding members, the project seeks to support the development of innovative tools and strategies for the sustainable management and protection of cultural heritage. This collaborative approach ensures that solutions are tailored to the specific needs of different regions and communities, fostering inclusivity and effectiveness.
A key component of the project is the Thematic Annual Programming (TAP) action, which aims to create an international network of projects on the water-climate change-cultural heritage nexus. The SD-WISHEES TAP action will bring together projects funded by the RFOs from France, Greece, Malta and Romania.
Moreover, SD-WISHEES adopts a Human Rights-Based Approach (HRBA), an internationally recognized methodology that ensures inclusivity and sustainability. This approach is anchored in a system of rights and corresponding obligations established by international law, emphasizing the importance of protecting cultural heritage as a fundamental human right. By integrating HRBA, the project aims to empower communities, promote participation, and ensure that interventions are equitable and just.
SD-WISHEES emphasises the importance of exploring innovative pathways to address the challenges posed by hydroclimatic extremes. This involves organising workshops and collaborative sessions with experts from diverse fields to develop and implement effective strategies for cultural heritage preservation. For instance, during the AFRICA24 Conference in Mombasa, Kenya, SD-WISHEES hosted a workshop titled "Exploring Innovative Pathways: Safeguarding Cultural Heritage," bringing together professionals to discuss and devise solutions tailored to the unique challenges faced in different regions.
The SD-WISHEES project will deliver wide-ranging impacts. At the national level, SD-WISHEES will strengthen research programmes by pooling resources and aligning priorities, empowering widening countries and fostering transnational cooperation. This approach will build capacity for less experienced RFOs while sharing expertise from more advanced partners. For research communities, the project will facilitate global networks and collaborative efforts, enhancing scientific excellence, visibility, and access to international funding opportunities. Researchers will also benefit from opportunities to co-create innovative solutions and gain valuable insights from interdisciplinary teams.
The project will promote trust-building and integration across regions, reducing disparities and fostering cohesion. By encouraging international cooperation, SD-WISHEES tackles transboundary challenges such as climate change and water pollution. It also highlights the role of cultural heritage in societal transformation and sustainable development.
In summary, the SD-WISHEES project represents a significant step forward in the protection and sustainable management of cultural heritage in the face of hydroclimatic extreme events. Through strategic collaboration, innovative research, and a commitment to human rights, the project aims to safeguard our shared cultural legacy for present and future generations.