Sacred Natural Sites: Conservation of Biological and Cultural Diversity

This document provides a synthesis of the importance of sacred natural sites as reservoirs of biological, cultural and natural diversity, and notes that, unfortunately, they are not sufficiently well recognised and as such are often under threat. Support and legal recognition, both national and international, for local and indigenous communities is essential if they are to continue playing their roles as guardians and custodians of the wealth and diversity of sacred natural sites. Moreover, these sites imply the existence of important ethical and moral principles related to sustainable ways of life, which can provide examples that are applicable in light of the challenges presented by global warming.