%L theses_frw219
%D 2017
%A L.I. Diepeveen
%X The Wadden Sea region was placed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 2009 because of its natural heritage. However, the uniqueness of the region is shaped by the interplay between natural and cultural factors. This research aims to uncover how natural and cultural heritage are valued in the region. The main research question is ‘how are natural and cultural heritage valued in the Wadden Sea region?’ Another key question is what the potential is for integrating cultural heritage into the UNESCO World Heritage status of the region. The analysis of survey results showed natural heritage is valued higher than cultural heritage. However, This result does not indicate the natural heritage status is sufficient, since the region has the features needed to integrate cultural heritage into the UNESCO World Heritage status. This research recommends a re-evaluation of the criteria which made the Wadden Sea region earn its UNESCO World Heritage status.
%T Dutch Heritage: natural and cultural heritage in the Wadden Sea region