Ring of Brodgar (F Grahame)

The University of the Highlands and Islands Archaeology Institute is looking forward to welcoming an impressive line-up of speakers and contributors to the ‘Our Islands, Our Past’ Conference.

The conference is being held in the Orkney Theatre, Kirkwall on the 14th – 17th September and anyone interested in archaeology is welcome to attend by registering on their website.

A field trip for delegates is planned for Thursday 14th September with the conference sessions commencing at 4.30pm on Friday 15th September. Speakers from around the globe are presenting their research on themes relevant to island life – past, present and future.

• Session One: The Three Islands Group Research Framework
• Session Two: Identity and Culture
• Session Three: Sustainability and Conservation
• Session Four: Migration and Abandonment
• Session Five: Connectivity and Travel
• Session Six: Island Culture and Place

Participants include Adam Markham, Deputy Director of Climate & Energy the Union of Concerned Scientists, who will be opening Session Three with a paper entitled: Climate Change, Island World Heritage, and Lessons from Community Responses.

Adam writes in his abstract:

“Cultural resources, including archaeology, historic sites and intangible heritage are at risk from climate change on islands the world over. Climate impacts include sea level rise, coastal erosion, and extreme weather events. Irreplaceable archaeological and other cultural resources are being lost at an alarming rate, and with them, important and sacred places, and some of the stories and histories that help provide peoples’ sense of belonging. Island World Heritage sites provide an opportunity to draw local and international attention to the threat posed by climate change and to the special circumstances island communities face in responding to change.”

All are welcome to attend…register by sending in the Conference Registration Form to
archaeologyconference@uhi.ac.uk.

All payments must be accompanied by a completed registration form which should be emailed to archaeologyconference@uhi.ac.uk

To pay by card, go to the Orkney Islands Council online payment page