Heritage sites have important cultural, ecological, historical, social, and economic value, but those along the African coastline are exposed to rising sea levels caused by climate change. Research by the Joint Research Centre published in the journal Nature Climate Change found that one in five coastal heritage sites in Africa – including the iconic ruins of Tipasa (Algeria) and the North Sinai Archaeological Sites Zone (Egypt) – are currently at risk from extreme coastal events.

Under high greenhouse gas emission scenarios, as many as 80% of heritage sites could be exposed by mid-century, 60% under the moderate emissions scenario. This highlights the urgent need to reduce emissions.

Geospatial data on natural heritage sites are available from the Africa Knowledge Platform, and data on the exposure of coastal heritage sites are showcased as part of the digital StoryMap on effective coastal and marine protected areas, More than Paper Parks.