Heritage and Sustainability
Preserving and applying traditional knowledge systems to tackle climate change
Preservation of Micronesian Music and Dance by Micronesian SeminarCultural Heritage Center, U.S. Department of State
The United States believes that climate security, energy security, food security, and water security go hand in hand. Efforts to manage these challenges can and should be informed by community participation and the respectful inclusion of Indigenous Knowledge.
Documentation of Endangered Musical Traditions in Mali (Ongoing)Cultural Heritage Center, U.S. Department of State
The U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP)
The U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation is one way the United States helps communities around the world preserve their heritage, including traditional knowledge systems.
In 2020, AFCP supported the conservation of the stepwells at the 16th-century Qtub Shahi necropolis near Hyderabad, which vividly demonstrate traditional methods of water storage and irrigation that adjust to seasonal fluctuations and provide access to safe water.
Batammariba Dwelling by U.S. Department of StateCultural Heritage Center, U.S. Department of State
Koutammakou, Benin: The land of the Batammariba
The earthen dwellings and traditional building practices of Koutammakou, a remarkable landscape on the border between Benin and Togo, are resilient in a landscape that faces threats from poverty and climate change.
Batammariba Building Techniques by U.S. Department of StateCultural Heritage Center, U.S. Department of State
In 2022, the U.S. Ambassadors Fund supported the preservation of two-story Takienta dwellings and the development of entrepreneurial activities by women. The project relied on, applied, and preserved traditional building techniques that have less impact on the environment.
Old Image of Nelson Island by U.S. Department of State and 2023Cultural Heritage Center, U.S. Department of State
Nelson Island Preservation
This island, a key site in Trinidad and Tobago's multicultural history, is under threat from climate change and rising sea levels. It was here in the 19th century that many indentured servants arrived and were quarantined.
New Nelson Island (2023) by U.S. Department of StateCultural Heritage Center, U.S. Department of State
In 2022, AFCP supported a project to digitally document the site and engage the community in the development of a values-based conservation and climate change adaptation management plan.
Preservation of the 17th-Century Wat Chaiwatthanaram (17th century)Cultural Heritage Center, U.S. Department of State
Our Enduring Commitment
The United States launched the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation in 2001. Since then it has supported over 1,200 projects in 130 countries around the world to help preserve humanity's rich cultural heritage.
Documentation of Endangered Musical Traditions in Mali (Ongoing)Cultural Heritage Center, U.S. Department of State
Heritage Sustains
Traditional knowledge is a valuable component of being able to face not only climate change but also the preservation, conservation, and protection of all our resources.
