Developing a standardised assessment system for natural World Heritage sites The Enhancing our Heritage Project Sue Stolton, Equilibrium Consultants

WCPA Protected Area Assessment Framework An overall structure and some principles Assessments aimed at identifying major trends and issues across networks (e.g. WWF RAPPAM, State of the Parks assessments) Quick-to-use generic tools looking at common issues over multiple sites (e.g. World Bank/WWF Tracking Tool, PROARCA-CAPAS) Detailed monitoring and assessment sites (e.g. World Heritage Enhancing our Heritage project)

One framework, many systems Simple questionnaire approaches relying on expert judgement Site level data-driven approaches relying on regular monitoring and assessment

Enhancing our Heritage Monitoring and Managing for Success in Natural World Heritage Areas

Project aims To work with managers of World Heritage sites to develop assessment, monitoring and reporting systems and by applying the results to adapt or enhance management Demonstrate the potential to use the WCPA Framework to develop a consistent approach to assessment, monitoring and reporting on the state of conservation and management effectiveness of World Heritage sites that could be applied to World Heritage sites on an on-going basis

Site Governments Regional coordination (WHC) World Heritage Convention Regular reporting

6 year project of UNESCO and IUCN started in 2001 Funded by the United Nations Foundation Carried out in co- operation with the University of Queensland, The Nature Conservancy, and other organisations Background

Developed with managers Working with protected area managers to develop assessment tools and processes Self-assessment system Integrate into existing systems Aimed at site and system level uptake

Aldabra Atoll, Seychelles Bwindi Impenetrable, Uganda Canaima, Venezuela Kaziranga, IndiaKeoladeo, IndiaRoyal Chitwan, Nepal Rio Platano, Honduras Sangay, Ecuador Serengeti, Tanzania

Brief description of project Work with sites (managers and stakeholders) to develop assessment/monitoring based upon the Framework Conduct assessments, develop and implement additional monitoring as needed Implement small-scale projects in response to assessment and develop project proposals Gather lessons learnt and use these to: –Revise and improve the WCPA Framework –Prepare advice to World Heritage Centre on application of WCPA Framework for reporting procedures under the Convention

EoH Workbook Structured around the WCPA Framework 11 tools which can assess a range of indicators Many tools drawn from best practices around the world … but often simplified Tools can be adapted to suit a site’s individual needs: –supplement existing assessment activities –point of reference to develop new assessment tools to meet site needs –build a complete assessment system from the start

Assessment steps Start assessment Assemble data Identify gaps in data Undertake any simple steps to fill data gaps Use data to compile assessment Complete assessment and analyse results Carry out management interventions (adaptive management) in response to assessment Identify gaps in assessment that need more work Set up steps to fill gaps in monitoring

Sangay National Park, Ecuador A spectrum of ecosystems, from rainforests to glaciers But management was species orientated Broaden their vision of site values EoH is helping to develop monitoring (baseline data) and management strategies for this broader vision

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda Including local people in the assessment of management has led to increased awareness of management issues and conservation objectives Many tangible outcomes in terms of improving management at site level, i.e. widening stakeholder involvement, review staff and assessment processes

Key Elements of Assessment Relevance and applicability: realistic and leading to achievable management actions Adaptability: range of tools Partnerships: self-assessment strengthened by stakeholder involvement Reporting: reporting from local to international needs