As a response to the race against time to preserve the world's ancient cultural heritage, The Getty recently announced an ambitious, $100 million initiative called “Ancient Worlds Now: A Future for the Past” that aims to promote a stronger understanding of global cultural heritage and its value to present and future society. Although activities related to the decade-long initiative are already underway, an official launch is scheduled for next summer.

Main objectives of the initiative include: 

• raising broad awareness of the threats to ancient heritage caused by development, economic pressures, mass tourism, political forces, climate change, and violent conflict; 
• creating effective conservation strategies and educational programs to engage audiences worldwide about the significance of protecting ancient sites; 
• and pursuing further research to strengthen understanding of the interconnections between ancient cultures.

“In an age of resurgent populism, sectarian violence, and climate change, the future of the world’s common heritage is at risk,” said James Cuno, president and CEO of the J. Paul Getty Trust, in a press statement. “Cultural heritage embodies a global community united by a common need to make things of beauty and usefulness, and to compose stories and rituals about humanity’s place in the world. We will launch with urgency and build momentum for years to come. This work must start now, before more cultural heritage is neglected, damaged, or destroyed. Much is at stake.”

The Getty's top priority over the next year is enlisting like-minded global partners, such as schools, cultural institutions, NGOs, and the private sector. Additionally, The Getty will dedicate the cross-disciplinary work of its four programs (Getty Foundation, Getty Research Institute, Getty Conservation Institute, and Getty Museum) to the initiative.