Drones, Machetes, and Virtual Reality: 21st-Century Tools for Historic Preservation

by Dace A. Campbell , AIA, LEED AP @DaceCampbell Introduction The climate is changing, and sea level is rising. Scientists estimate that ocean waters will rise by at least two meters this century, which could have a catastrophic impact around the globe. Among the nations and peoples most vulnerable to this coming change are those who make their home on the islands of the Pacific Ocean. Entire countries and cultures will disappear as beaches erode, villages submerge, and countless atolls and islands are wiped off the map. And with them, an entire history evidenced by architectural and cultural artifacts. But this tragic scenario doesn’t have to be the end of the story. In fact, with the right tools, you can help. It seems that there is little that can be done to stop rising sea levels in the short term. However, as technology advances and becomes more accessible to professionals and amateurs alike, we have tools at our disposal to mitigate the impacts of climate change o