Digital Monitoring Systems to Mitigate the Impact of Climate Change in Cultural Heritage Protected Areas: The Case Study of Wadi Rum UNESCO Site

Abstract

NoWorld Heritage sites are increasingly vulnerable to climate change. Extreme weather, rising temperatures, high humidity and sea-level affects historical structures and archaeological sites accelerating deterioration, threatening authenticity, integrity and putting cultural buildings at risk of total loss. A comprehensive strategy, particularly through systematic documentation and monitoring, enabling early interventions are urgently necessary. Wadi Rum UNESCO-inscribed area, situated in southern Jordan is of extraordinary significance. The rock art, inscriptions, and archaeological evidence can be considered exceptional testimony to the cultural traditions of its early inhabitants promoting tourism activities and consequently, being relevant for local economy. Unfortunately, this rock art and widespread inscriptions are threatened by uncontrolled weathering processes, leading to their fading, and making some petroglyphs hard to distinguish. Extreme weather conditions are putting enormous pressure on this heritage, leading it to disappear and accelerating rock decay with surface changes and, in some circumstances, deep cracking effects. The present paper proposes a novel framework for the comprehensive documentation and monitoring of the Cultural and Natural heritage under hazard in the UNESCO area of the Wadi Rum, Jordan. This approach emphasizes collaboration with local stakeholders, enabling early intervention in case of decay of inscriptions and petroglyphics due to harsher climate conditions and ensuring its safeguarded for future generations. Furthermore, it uses advanced digital technologies to create a sustainable and replicable approach. The methodology consists of three key phases: i) Collaborative data documentation; ii) Real time monitoring and visualisation; and iii) Knowledge dissemination and community engagement. While DUNE Framework offers a promising solution, the discussions address some challenges related to its implementation and long-term effectiveness