UNESCO urges investors to protect world heritage sites from extractive threats

A new UNESCO-led report reveals that extractive industries threaten over one-third of natural World Heritage sites, with oil, gas, and mining operations encroaching on protected areas. The report calls on investors to assess and mitigate financial and reputational risks by adopting "no-go" commitments aligned with UNESCO standards. Nearly half of natural sites are within 1 km of extractive activity, and cultural sites are increasingly at risk. The findings highlight a shared responsibility to safeguard irreplaceable heritage through stronger investment policies and legal protections.

Source: adapted from UNESCO, July 2025.