It is our understanding that heritage belongs to everyone. Protecting, preserving and invigorating the historic environment is a responsibility shared by every member of society. We believe that in a world increasingly dominated by global styles, historic sites provide a unique sense of place which differentiates them one from another. People value the historic environment as part of their cultural and natural heritage. It reflects the knowledge, beliefs and traditions of diverse communities. It gives distinctiveness, meaning and quality to the places in which we live, providing a sense of continuity and a source of identity.