Many people are not aware that our cultural heritage is under stress from natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods, and from slower acting processes such as pollution or human actions. Even the most innocent gestures such as collecting ancient pieces of pottery or mosaics es souvenirs have a, destructive impact if repeated by thousands. Touching an object of stone, metal or textile leäves traces of grease, acid or sweat on its surtace. Climbing a monument wears down the structure underneath and can dismantle it. Writing or engraving names inflicts permanent damage.

Strolling around narrow crowded places with bulky bags or backpacks might knock over an object or scratch a mural painting and ruin it. There are countless ways in which one can unknowingly contribute to the destruction of cultural heritage.

In 2020 there will be 1.6 billion visitors per year worldwide. Let us raise awareness of this issue so that we may join together to protect and enjoy the diversity and richness of our cultural heritage.  International Organization for Conservation of Cultural Heritage (ICCROM)