The cultural heritage sector in the UK is well known for its leading role in coming up with innovative best practices for the protection of cultural heritage. Whether it involves building new technologies such as model sensors or applying established techniques in innovative ways such as using 3D imaging and documentation for storing of heritage information, it has had a substantial contribution to both the governments’ international development commitments and the United Nation’s 2030 SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals).
The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy invited The UK National Commission for UNESCO to help point out the most innovative practices that are being deployed by the UK’s cultural heritage sector and that can be effectively employed across the ODA countries. Cultural heritage is a vital facet of the contemporary knowledge economy, and the UK clearly excels in the field with its world-class institutions leading in the innovative practices that not only aid in the protection of cultural heritage but also further economic development and a number of other sustainable development goals.
The report pointed out that such innovative mechanisms and practices in the cultural heritage sector can be introduced across a number of the developing countries to help them achieve more of the SDGs alongside safeguarding their cultural heritage.
The practices being deployed by the UK’s cultural heritage sector vary broadly. Some rely on incorporating the latest technology such as 3D imaging or 3D documentation, while others use well-established techniques from other industries and apply them cleverly in a cultural heritage context. Yet others revolve around creative management practices and ways of conducting operations that allow them to enhance professional development and fuel engagement. Some of their creative processes and practices can also be used to raise awareness and educate the local masses about the significance of cultural heritage.
One distinctive expertise of the UK in this sector is its people-centred approach. The Culture in Crisis program is a powerful example of this. It highlights the impact of the loss that cultural heritage destruction really is. The program outlines the highly positive role that the preservation of cultural heritage can play for communities in rebuilding a war-torn area post-war. It provides law enforcement support from both national and international forces. British armed forces offer training and help in devising strategies to counter the illegal trade of cultural goods.
Icon is another such program introduced by the UK cultural heritage sector. It is engaged in developing mechanisms and SOPs that will ensure ethical sampling and other best sampling practices in the light of the rapidly evolving modern digital landscape. The Icon Documentation Network promotes collaboration in cultural heritage conservation across the many different bodies engaged in this line of work. It can be deployed across the ODA countries where the documentation and conservation efforts desperately require such tools and guidelines.
Furthermore, there are many projects that seek to support the local economy’s growth through cultural conservation efforts. Areas such as heritage tourism and heritage craft skills all offer economic benefits to the local communities involved in the cultural preservation efforts.
