Convenors: Dr Ania Kotarba-Morley (Australia) and Dr Ziad Morsy (Egypt)
This theme explores the increasing threats facing archaeological sites and cultural landscapes globally. Archaeological sites are being lost or irreparably damaged due to climate change, natural disasters, human expansion, industrial activities, and armed conflict. These pressures not only destroy tangible heritage, but also disrupt ancestral and cultural connections, particularly for Indigenous communities whose knowledge systems are deeply embedded within these landscapes.
In addition to addressing contemporary challenges, this theme considers how past societies adapted to environmental change and natural disasters, offering insights into long-term resilience and sustainability. By examining archaeological evidence of past human responses to shifting climates, resource scarcity, and ecological transformations, we can better inform present and future heritage management strategies.
The theme emphasises interdisciplinary, cross-cultural, and innovative responses to protect, manage, and—where appropriate—digitally preserve endangered places. Participants will explore how partnerships between Indigenous knowledge holders, archaeologists, and scientists can foster meaningful, sustainable approaches to safeguarding heritage, ensuring long-term cultural continuity. Discussions will also engage with ethical concerns around community participation and data ownership. Additionally, the theme will explore how cutting-edge digital technologies—such as AI, machine learning, and virtual reality—can contribute to documenting and presenting cultural heritage in ways that not only mitigate loss but also enhance resilience for future generations.
Contacts:
Dr Ania Kotarba-Morley
Archaeology and Curatorial and Museum Studies and Environment Institute, the University of Adelaide, Australia
ania.kotarba@adelaide.edu.au
Dr Ziad Morsy
Honour Frost Foundation and Alexandria Centre for Maritime Archaeology and Underwater Cultural Heritage, the University of Alexandria, Egypt
Zmorsy@honorfrostfoundation.org
THEME 16 SESSIONS
T16/Session 03: International Archaeological Heritage Management of Endangered Sites
T16/Session 07: Entangled Architectures: Human and Non-Human Relationships in the Built Environment
THEME 16 WORKHOPS