Investigating the Impact of Temperature Changes on Coastal Heritage Sites Using Remote Sensing

Coastal heritage assets are essential components of a society’s history and must be transferred to the next generation sustainably. However, they are significantly prone to natural and anthropogenic hazards. Monitoring coastal assets is a complex phenomenon as the attributes are interdependent. Expert observations and on-site measurements have been practised to monitor these assets, but it takes time to cover a larger area over a longer time. Remote sensing observation could be used to assess a large area with regular observation. This study examines the effects of climate change on coastal heritage assets in terms of temperature and moisture variations. Such long-term variations could exacerbate the condition of coastal heritage assets and pose a risk. The study employs a multidisciplinary approach that combines satellite observations, publicly available in situ measurements and sustainable development practices. Using remote sensing, we examine satellite images to extract land surface temperature, monitor changes in coastal environments and assess their effects on coastal historic sites. We identify areas at risk based on temperature and moisture anomalies that need attention from asset owners and decision-makers. These findings will contribute to actions for the protection of coastal heritage and provide input for a framework for sustainable heritage conservation.