An ambitious global goal on adaptation for heritage

Abstract

Getting heritage-relevant adaptation indicators right is critical for adapting heritage to climate change. We assess the Belém Adaptation Indicators adopted at COP30 under the UAE Framework for Global Climate Resilience to clarify strengths and gaps. Adoption is a significant step toward operationalising the Global Goal on Adaptation. To close outstanding gaps, we call for clear definitions, baselines and metadata that reflect tangible and intangible heritage, including diverse knowledge systems, while minimising reporting burdens by aligning with UNESCO inventories and national channels. We flag omissions and propose pragmatic fixes for credible, low‑burden monitoring and action including mixed‑methods and narrative 'direction‑of‑travel' measures, capacity strengthening and finance access to manage losses and damages and reposition heritage as a driver of climate‑resilient development.