This report provides a comprehensive assessment of the global status, values, and conservation challenges of natural UNESCO World Heritage sites. These sites represent the planet’s most exceptional natural areas, recognised under the 1972 World Heritage Convention for their universal value that transcends borders, cultures, and generations.

As of 2025, the World Heritage List includes 1,248 sites, of which 276 are recognised for their natural or mixed conservation values. Although they cover less than 1% of the Earth’s surface, natural World Heritage sites shelter more than 20% of global species richness, including thousands of globally threatened species. They play a crucial role in biodiversity conservation, climate regulation, sustainable development, and human well-being.