Sustainability in Cultural Heritage and Archaeology: Challenges, Practices and Futures [special issue]

Abstract

The interconnection between sustainability, cultural heritage, and archaeology has become increasingly significant in the context of contemporary global challenges. Archaeology, as a discipline that examines the long-term relationships between human societies and their environments, offers distinctive insights into sustainable practices, adaptation processes, and societal collapse. In parallel, cultural heritage, both tangible and intangible, constitutes a repository of knowledge, identity, and collective memory that requires careful preservation and responsible management for future generations. In a context shaped by climate change, urban expansion, resource exploitation, and geopolitical tensions, archaeological sites and cultural heritage assets are particularly vulnerable. At the same time, they hold considerable potential to support more sustainable development pathways by contributing to education, fostering responsible tourism, and reinforcing the value of local communities. This Collection seeks to explore these intersections, highlighting innovative approaches, sustainable practices, and forward-looking perspectives.