Brussels, 21/05/2014 (Agence Europe) - On Wednesday 21 May, in line with its forthcoming work plan on culture, the Council adopted conclusions on “the strategic dimension of cultural heritage for a sustainable Europe”. These conclusions emphasise that cultural heritage in its tangible, intangible and digital dimensions is a strategic resource in which Europe should invest, in order to make its environmental, economic and social development more sustainable. Cultural heritage, as a unique non-renewable resource, brings with it both opportunities and challenges. The text highlights two particular points among the opportunities: - social impact: by generating the feeling of belonging to a community, cultural heritage is a source of identity and values that encourages cultural participation and social inclusion; and - the economic impact, which will mainly benefit the local population because cultural heritage essentially cannot be relocated. The economic crisis and constraints on the cultural budget can have a particularly negative effect on the conservation and preservation of cultural heritage, which is often considered as a secondary and more costly sector, points out the Council. Climate change could lead to an irreversible deterioration or loss of cultural goods and is a substantial challenge. The impact of the digital transition is a substantial challenge too. The conclusions call for more investment in cultural heritage as part of sustainable regional strategies put in place at national and European levels. The member states and the Commission are called on to better coordinate heritage-related policies and initiatives relating to or having an impact on cultural heritage, including at an international level. Member states are also invited to include cultural heritage in the subjects to be tackled in the Council's next work plan for promoting culture. (IL)