On December 20, 2024, the CMCC Foundation hosted the Policy Round Table “Intangible Heritage and Climate Change” at the Central Institute for Intangible Cultural Heritage in Rome. Part of the GreenHeritage project, this event gathered 16 participants — including government officials, academics, civil society members, and business representatives — to discuss how climate change affects intangible cultural heritage (ICH) and to develop actionable strategies.

Following opening remarks by Leandro Ventura, Director of the Institute, and a keynote by Giulio Boccaletti on the critical role of water resources in preserving traditions, two Italian case studies were presented. The first, focused on UNESCO-listed shoulder-borne processional structures, highlighted how rising temperatures and increased rainfall are impacting participation, particularly among vulnerable groups. Adaptation measures, such as adjusting routes, timings, and traditional materials, have been introduced.

The second case explored the dry-stone walls of Cinque Terre National Park, which face challenges from heavy rainfall, flooding, and landslides. Efforts to restore and maintain these walls are not only preserving cultural heritage but also contributing to landscape stabilization and climate resilience.

An interactive session encouraged participants to share ideas on safeguarding ICH in the face of climate change. This led to eight key recommendations, emphasizing community-driven initiatives, integrated strategies, and the active involvement of policymakers.

The event concluded by stressing the importance of collaboration across European, national, and local levels to protect intangible cultural heritage and ensure its resilience in a changing climate.