Funding Shortfalls Overtake Climate as Biggest Threat to Heritage Sites, Study Finds

A new study released this week by the World Monuments Fund (WMF) has identified inadequate government funding as the leading threat to heritage sites worldwide.

The findings point to a shift in the risks facing historic places, with financial constraints now ranking ahead of climate-related threats.

Climate ranks second, according to the study, underscoring that environmental pressures remain a major concern even as funding gaps take priority.

The ranking puts the resources available for heritage protection at the centre of the conservation debate. It highlights the importance of government financing alongside efforts to address the effects of a changing climate.