ABSTRACT
The growth of heritage is remarkable, transitioning from a niche interest to a mass phenomenon that influences public policy and fuels tourism. Cultural and natural heritage preservation has expanded dramatically, with nearly 17% of the world's land under some form of protection. The emergence of a global environmental consciousness has further fuelled this expansion, with new treaties and regulations reinforcing protection efforts. However, questions arise about the quantity and purpose of heritage preservation. The rush to inscribe sites on the World Heritage List has sparked concerns about devaluation, while the proliferation of heritage rankings and contests has become a global trend. The economic impact of heritage, particularly in tourism, has become a driving force, sometimes overshadowing its intrinsic value. Challenges include balancing heritage with modern creativity, avoiding an excess of conservation, and responding to changing societal needs. The economic aspect of heritage often lacks rigorous assessment, with public investment not always subject to standard economic evaluation practices. As the number of heritage sites grows, the sustainability of preservation efforts becomes a pressing concern. Concepts like “adaptive release” propose acknowledging the transformation and change inherent in heritage, rather than rigidly preserving a fixed state.
