From architects to urban designers to public policy specialists to builders, we all contribute to creating cities and places that are diverse and inclusive of their population and environment. With a growing focus globally on compliance reporting for companies across environmental, social and governance (ESG) and United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), there is a great opportunity for community to be fully involved in the design process to ensure the protection and celebration of cultural diversity.  

An appreciation for cultural diversity is recommended for those working in designing urban centres today, to ensure that a diverse range of values is protected, as suggested by UN SDG Target 4.7. The importance of cultural urban places is much more than their physical remains, they are valuable for their diverse cultural and emotional qualities. As an example, all forms of cultural heritage equally contribute to achieving UN SDGs Target 11.4 objectives, be it archaeological, built heritage, or intangible heritage. They also inspire and shape the identities of the groups of people who live and work in and around them, contributing to the vitality of the place. Just like past generations, these groups and communities are, in turn, responsible for preserving the sense of identity and continuity of urban heritage sites for generations to come.

However, heritage preservation is under threat due to economic and social pressures. Ferocious urban growth allied with a housing deficit, shortage of traditional skills and lack of cultural awareness makes heritage preservation a possibility for relatively few urban developments, mostly those that can afford the high costs associated with historic sites, time delays and uncertainty. These trends can impact heritage values through conflict of interests, insufficient resources, and poor decision-making, among many other threats. This scenario can be even more complex where development is on traditional land and environmental values are subtle.

Cultural heritage plays a dynamic and active role in contemporary society through respectful and mutually beneficial interchanges between development, local communities and heritage sites. It can be an important economic driver for tourism, where a rights-based planning approach can enhance the ongoing social connections to place. As an example, through collaboration with Traditional Owners and Knowledge holders, their cultural knowledge only highlights their valuable advice, generating an inclusive design process that formulate culturally sensitive designs that ultimately foster a shared sense of ownership and social cohesion.

With much discussion across the community on the topic of heritage, there are different frameworks and legislation nationally that are being drafted or being considered that recognise the valuable contributions of Traditional Owners and Knowledge Holders. However, there is a critical need for action to ensure that heritage values are considered for their positive aspects, including contributing to cultural diversity, social inclusion, economic prosperity and ultimately well-being.

Companies can be on the front-foot with regards to heritage preservation, not only to address their compliance reporting requirements. While many steps are being taken to consider the meaningful engagement of diverse cultural groups, it is highly encouraged and crucial that local communities are actively involved, voices heard, and decisions included from planning through to construction. Efforts to incorporate heritage values into investment decision making, development programs and ongoing relationships are key to achieving the UN SDG’s and ESG goals. There is an opportunity to create a legacy for future generations by incorporating the physical and intangible values of cultural heritage across all aspects of the community and economy.