Geohazards affecting UNESCO WHL sites in the UK observed from geological data and satellite InSAR

A comprehensive geohazard assessment methodology for UNESCO World Heritage List (WHL) sites in the UK has been developed, combining geological data with satellite-based radar interferometry (InSAR). The study highlights that while only one UK WHL site is currently listed as 'in danger,' many more could be vulnerable to geohazards. Using Gwynedd's Castles and Town Walls as a test case, researchers demonstrated how varied geology and topography can influence stability across multiproperty sites. Additionally, the approach was applied to four London WHL sites, showcasing its potential for broader application. This work contributes to the PROTHEGO project, which aims to map geohazards in over 400 European WHL sites using non-invasive remote sensing techniques.

Cigna, F., Tapete, D., & Lee, K. (2016). Geohazards affecting UNESCO WHL sites in the UK observed from geological data and satellite InSAR. Fourth International Conference on Remote Sensing and Geoinformation of the Environment (RSCy2016), 9688, 96880X. https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2240768