From the Readers

Rethink world heritage bids

(China Daily)
Updated: 2010-09-13 08:17

Comment on "Debate: Heritage Sites" (China Daily, Sept 6)

Bidding for the UNESCO World Heritage status has become a countrywide phenomenon for historical and natural sites, which is aimed at attracting more tourists. Local governments put in as much effort and money as possible to win a UNESCO tag for a site under their jurisdiction. But China's provinces, regions and municipalities should consider three factors before putting their weight behind world heritage bids.

First, do they want their sites to get a UNESCO stamp because they really deserve it? Won't such a tag attract a lot more tourists than the site can handle? Won't these tourists create pollution beyond imagination? Won't commercialization change the distinct character of a site?

Second, many a site has failed to get a UNESCO stamp despite a local government putting everything behind its bid. This could have happened for lack of certain features. Therefore, we must choose to bid for sites that actually deserve such an honor, not to cash in on the UNESCO tag.

Third, we should have a detailed plan to work on after a site wins a world heritage status. Such a plan should include the site's preservation and control of tourist inflow to minimize damage and pollution.

Bids to earn a UNESCO tag are popular because it brings in business. But it is important to keep in mind the three factors mentioned above to ensure the sites are preserved for future generations.

Liu Ren, via e-mail

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(China Daily 09/13/2010 page9)