The ecosystem of the world is full of natural wonders ranging from glaciers, mountains, and rivers to rainforests and steep gorges. The UNESCO sponsored world heritage committee is set to meet to include new areas rich in biodiversity and review the upkeep of already named natural wonders. World Conservation Union (IUCN) has nominated the biodiversity rich rainforest in Madagascar and Tenerife’s volcanic landscape, South China Karst, Jeju volcanic island of Korea, Primeval beech forests in Eastern Europe and Teide National Park of Spain to include in the list of world-renowned natural heritage.
The UN World Heritage Committee scheduled to meet on 23 June in New Zealand. It is established and monitored by the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco), with the aim to ensure the long-term protection of globally important cultural and natural sites. In all total 37 natural and cultural sites are to be considered for the status of UN World Heritage sites.
South China Karst is an unrivaled biodiversity hotspot and a unique underground landscape formed by water eroding limestone and marble rocks.The Atsinanana rainforests of Madagascar are home to a unique range of species, mostly ethnic to the island. Jeju volcanic island of Korea formed from a shield volcano about 1.2 million years ago boasts an impressive and significant system of underground lava tunnels. The Eastern European Primeval beech forests found in Slovakia and Ukraine are an outstanding example of undisturbed, complex temperate woodlands.Teide National Park of Spain also known as Tenerife volcanic region is listed for its mature, slow-moving and geologically complex volcanic system.
The IUCN is also to review the protection for existing World Heritage sites identified as being at risk. The famed Galapagos Islands, the only rainforest in the Pacific, are now under strain due to increase in volume of tourist inflow. The diversity on the island is considered to be the inspiration behind Darwin developing his theory of evolution.
However, in a set back to the conservationist, the UK Government removed its bid for including Charles Darwin’s home in the Natural Heritage List. It is sure to put a question mark on the credibility of the UK Government and the UNESCO.
The World Heritage List generates public affiliation for the natural and cultural splendors of the world and inspires the mankind to save them as a showcase of its inheritance.
Via: BBC