The historic lighthouses of Maine have been listed as endangered heritage sites by World Monuments Watch, highlighting their vulnerability to climate change and rising sea levels. Included in the 2025 list, these lighthouses face serious risks alongside other significant global sites.
Maine’s historic lighthouses have been included in the World Monuments Watch’s annual list of endangered heritage sites. This list highlights cultural monuments facing various risks, such as neglect, conflict, and climate change. The 2025 list features 25 sites, including Maine’s lighthouses, a Buddhist monastery in Mongolia, and areas damaged by warfare in Ukraine and Gaza.
The inclusion of Maine’s lighthouses on this global list underscores the significant threats posed by climate change, particularly in the Gulf of Maine, a region experiencing rapid ocean warming. These lighthouses, built primarily between 1791 and 1910, are not only navigational aids but also serve as tourist attractions that bolster the coastal economy. However, their locations on vulnerable islands and low-lying areas expose them to sea level rise and storm surges.
Maine’s lighthouses now face pressing challenges due to climate change as they were recently added to a list of global heritage sites at risk. With 57 of the 66 historic lighthouses still operational, their preservation is critical for maintaining maritime culture and supporting local economies. Enhanced protective measures and public awareness are essential to safeguard these iconic structures against the accelerating threats of a changing environment.
Original Source: www.centralmaine.com
