UNESCO

L'objectif de la présente étude est d'examiner, de clarifier, et de renforcer l'application et l'évaluation du critère (vii -- ontenir des phénomènes naturels remarquables ou des aires d'une beauté naturelle et d'une importance esthétique exceptionnelles) afin d'améliorer le conseil apporté aux États parties lors du processus de proposition d'inscription, et de mieux guider le processus d'évaluation conduit par l'UICN.

The purpose of this study is to review, clarify and strengthen the application and assessment of criterion (vii -- contain superlative natural phenomena or areas of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance) in order to improve advice to States Parties in the nomination process and enhance guidance for the IUCN evaluation process.

This Resource Manual has a specific purpose: helping to manage natural values within World Heritage properties. As such it is aimed at natural and mixed World Heritage properties as well as cultural landscapes (inscribed under cultural criteria). The intention is to help managers understand and incorporate World Heritage concepts and processes into natural site management.

World Heritage properties are some of the most unique places on our planet because of the range of outstanding and unique natural or cultural features and values that they contain. Like anything precious these places need to be protected and cared for responsibly. The purpose of this manual is to help those responsible for managing World Heritage properties with natural values by suggesting what they need to think about when producing a management plan for their property.

This Resource Manual represents IUCN’s advice to States Parties which are considering nominating a natural or mixed property for World Heritage status. Preparing a World Heritage nomination is not a simple task and interested parties are encouraged to carefully analyse the situation, taking the time needed to ensure a sound process that is closely linked to ensuring effective management of the property and cooperation with communities and stakeholders.

The manual is based on the version of the "Operational Guidelines for the Implementation of the World Heritage Convention" dated August 2011 and seeks to complement it. In particular, the manual seeks to support States Parties in implementing the World Heritage Convention and to provide guidance and knowledge that will help ensure a credible World Heritage List of well-managed properties of Outstanding Universal Value.