One can argue that academia has always existed in an information age; however, as the general public gains access to ever more advanced systems, it can be claimed that areas of academia require updating to maintain vitality in today’s world. When nautical archaeology produces inspiring reports, they are often at the hand of large budgets, rather than general day-to-day dissemination. This book proposes using state-of-the-art, low-budget digital technology from the outset of surveys, so that data may be recorded, analysed and disseminated, with seamless efficiency and great flair, while employing progressively less decontextualized means. Further, it conveys a simple methodology that allows for data collection by teams of volunteer divers. Big data, rapid analysis, and cross reference requirements have created a shift towards the need for advanced digital means, particularly relating to underwater archaeology, where survey time is limited. This book logs several years of studies, which respect in situ preservation, where the limits of technology were stretched to the cutting edge, using novel collection methods to populate custom-built numerical and visual databases, generating 2D and 3D digital models, and further creating a Virtual Reality “museum”. These advances not only propel the function of academia, but also promote the image of archaeology in an age where visualisation matters.

The marine environment is almost ideal for the preservation of artefacts and, until relatively recently, it also provided complete protection from destruction by man. However, the aqualung has made most shallow underwater sites accessible, leading to widespread plundering. Current deep-sea bed technology now threatens deep water sites. There is a need for immediate international action to preserve the man-made environment, alongside the natural one. The enunciation of legal rules to protect the underwater cultural heritage is a complex issue, involving a matrix of interests and laws, both international and national.

Underwater Cultural Heritage investigates cases of underwater cultural heritage, exploring ethical issues that have never been studied before. A vast cultural heritage lies beneath the sea, including the archaeological remains of more than three million vessels, as well as historic monuments and whole cities. In addition, climate change, population growth and current events around the world mean that new underwater cultural heritage is being created faster than ever before. It is, therefore, essential that the ethical issues related to the management of such heritage are considered now, especially as decisions made now will bestow the heritage with a value and will establish legal frameworks that could be used either to protect or harm underwater heritage in the future. Considering a range of challenges related to underwater cultural heritage - including preservation, management, use, sustainability, valuation, politics, identity, human rights, and intangible heritage - the book presents case studies that both illustrate the key ethical issues and also offer possible solutions to help navigate such challenges. The book will also explore the various legislative instruments protecting underwater cultural heritage and emphasise the importance of revising and updating legal frameworks, whilst also taking into account ethical concerns that may expose cultural heritage to more serious menaces. Underwater Cultural Heritage draws on case studies from around the globe and, as such, should be of great interest to academics, researchers and students working in heritage studies, archaeology, history, politics and sustainability. It should also be appealing to heritage practitioners and policymakers who want to learn more about the issues surrounding not only management of underwater cultural heritage but management of cultural heritage in general.

The first full-scale study of the international legal framework governing underwater cultural heritage to be published in nearly two decades.

This volume comprises a collection of sixteen national perspectives on law, policy and practice in respect of the underwater cultural heritage, written in light of the UNESCO Convention 2001. The essays provide an up-to-date account of the current legal position in each jurisdiction, as well as considering the impact that the 2001 Convention is having, and is likely to have in the future. As well as being internationally recognised experts in the field, all the contributors have specialist knowledge and practical experience of their own particular jurisdictions.