Unesco, World Heritage Centre

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.

This publication is dedicated to the topic of natural World Heritage. It explores how these outstanding sites can function as the flagships of protected areas and thereby support biodiversity conservation as well as human well-being. Statements of young people from around the world who participated in the International Youth Forum Go4BioDiv, held in parallel to the CBD-COP 10 in Nagoya, Japan, in October 2010, illustrate the threats to the treasures of our planet.