ABSTRACT
UNESCO's conventions have been instrumental in global heritage protection. The World Heritage Convention (1972) and Intangible Heritage Convention (2003) list sites and traditions. The Convention on Underwater Cultural Heritage (2001) safeguards underwater archaeology. The Hague Convention (1954) guides cultural protection during conflict, and the Illicit Import and Export Convention (1970) combats trafficking. The Convention on Cultural Diversity (2005) upholds creative variety. National heritage legislation is diverse. Europe's UK and France protect sites, and, similarly, the US's National Historic Preservation Act (1966) safeguards historic and heritage sites. Asia's India and China have enacted laws, as has Africa. Latin America, like Brazil and Mexico, employs heritage protection frameworks. Environmental safeguarding has evolved, addressing ecosystems and global issues. The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) in the US sets standards. Europe's influence and international treaties shape policy. Biodiversity preservation is prioritised through laws like India's Biological Diversity Act (2002) and South Africa's Biodiversity Act (2004). National legislation echoes global concerns, emphasising heritage conservation and environmental protection.
