climate change warming floods

The last 50 years have seen no less than 1,800 international disputes over water, 37 of which have become armed military conflicts. Population increases, rises in standards of living, and climate change all contribute to make this an increasingly dangerous and urgent issue.

European researchers are now warning that severe damage from desertification and intense rains could pose to a threat to cultural heritage sites such as the Tower of London, the historic center of Prague and the ancient temples of Greece. Until recently, climate change studies have largely focused on the potential effects on human health and the natural environment, but a report authored by specialists from seven European countries is the first large-scale project tackling the impact of climate change on historic landmarks.