Principle 3

Assessing risks and resilience

The following steps are fundamental for risk preparedness and building resilience:

  • assessing the risks of climate change to the heritage values of the place/object
  • understanding the vulnerability of the place/object to those risks
  • understanding capacity of the heritage place/object for adaptation.

Assessments of vulnerability to climate change hazards must recognise that climate change impacts to heritage values are diverse. They may be short-term, or long-term and cumulative; they could include complete loss.

Assessment of risk and resilience should guide action.

Practical tips for owners and managers

  • Assess the vulnerability of your place and its heritage values to the effects of climate change, using the vulnerability assessment guide.
  • Recognise that the risks are diverse and could be short-term or long-term. They could be gradual or sudden, and could include complete loss. This will help guide and prioritise your management actions and build climate resilience.
  • Assess the condition of the place or object and its significant elements and values. This is critical for determining the vulnerability of your heritage place/object to climate change and how you manage climatic risks to improve resilience.