Fossils as cultural heritage: Scientific, commercial and legislative issues

Fossils are among the principal sources for understanding the history of life through ‘Deep Time’ and can inform projections of biotic responses to environmental change. Despite a widespread recognition of the scientific, historical and communication significance of fossils in our culture, their role as part of our cultural heritage is still far from being internationally recognized. Moreover, their role in the global economy has grown, as increasing demand for items has prompted an international and profitable market, which has both a legal and illegal side. Several countries, because of their palaeontological resources, are key targets for fossil hunters and multi-million dollar fossil trading. Other countries are working to have earlier historical collections returned. Globally, regulations vary greatly and even a shared, unequivocally accepted definition of a fossil and its cultural significance is still lacking, creating systemic challenges that merit coordinated, multi-stakeholder responses. Pending effective and internationally shared approaches, uncertainty can create conditions that enable illicit activity. Interdisciplinary approaches and improved stakeholder cooperation may encourage professionals dealing with fossils in private and public institutions to share knowledge with lawyers, traders, law enforcement agencies, government bodies, ethics experts and the media.