A critical reflection of the development of biocultural heritage conservation and community based projects: a case study of Goonhilly Downs.
Jake Riding
Conclusion In conclusion, it was clear through the exploration of the historical development of both natural and cultural heritage conservation that the definitions seem to have both distinct and different meanings, and despite efforts to bridge the gap between the two through practice and policy, development and management, they still appear to exist. Social perceptions of this distinction between them both was also supported through questionnaire results where respondents appeared to have a much firmer understanding of what natural heritage conservation was as opposed to cultural heritage conservation. It appears that cultural heritage conservation has many meanings attached to it, both tangible and intangible and it perhaps is one of the contributory reasons for misunderstandings that occur. In recent years, there has been a lot of research to demonstrate that biocultural heritage has developed a broader approach to knowing how to tackle conservation with the increasing understanding that there needs to be more emphasis on cultural elements and knowing how these are synonymous with natural conservation will encourage people to engage more. The broader implications of this point towards solutions for climate change so it is a very important issue. Goonhilly Downs was used as a case study that highlighted the importance of biocultural heritage conservation, looking at a specific site and discussing responses from Natural Heritage England regarding the challenges faced in managing and developing effective approaches for the future. Goonhilly Village Green was used as a unique case study to explore in depth the positive outcomes of community based biocultural heritage conservation activities, with a focus on how the arts can play an important role in engaging new audiences and increasing community participation as well as supporting people in collaborative, multidisciplinary approaches share cultural narratives and increasing their affiliation with the shared natural environment around them.
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