Cultural Heritage and transitions in the utilisation of coastal and maritime resources in the 21st century experience economy – Galathea 3 in St. Croix

Cultural Heritage and transitions in the utilisation of coastal and maritime resources in the 21st century experience economy – Galathea 3 in St. Croix

Associate professor Janne Jørgensen Liburd, Ph.D., University of Southern Denmark

The oceans and coasts of the World are subject to increasing pressure from the impacts of human activity. Our activities include agriculture, fisheries, transport, aquaculture, recreation, tourism and industry. The negative impact is well known, including loss of natural wealth, cultural heritage, overexploitation and pollution. Furthermore, this is happening in a world where cultural wealth and historical narrative plays an ever-increasing role in the formation and reinvention of local, ethnic and national identity. Similarly, this wealth has significance for the operation of corporations and governments, who use them in a global struggle about political agendas, the attention of the markets and new cultural trends perceived to hold the promise of commercial potential.

The research headline “Cultural heritage and transitions in the utilisation of coastal and maritime resources in the 21st century experience economy– Galathea 3 in St. Croix” focuses on the ways in which the above mentioned challenges have previously been dealt with, what is currently being done and which options that we shall have in future, The new experience economy, which is especially characterised by its amalgamation of culture and commercial interest, finds its motivation in consumers’ increasing demand for unique (travel) experiences. The ability to describe and deal with these challenges requires new theoretical concepts and models that cut across the boundaries of scientific disciplines. The outcome should be able to point to improved management and administration approaches.

We shall therefore study ways in which we may improve and integrate concepts, methods, knowledge on and popular appreciation for sustainable utilisation of cultural and natural resource, through open and, hopefully, rewarding dialogue with relevant partners, in order to secure the preservation and sustainable utilisation of cultural, marine and coastal resources.