TIDE BITS: UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) defines World Heritage Sites as places of unique cultural or natural importance which belong to all the peoples of the world, regardless of where they are located. A World Heritage Site designation brings attention to a place and provides an impetus for its protection. The islands and protected areas of the Gulf of California were declared a World Heritage Site in 2005, owing to their diversity and ‘striking natural beauty.'