Risk Management Priority Assessment of heritage sites in China Based on Entropy Weight and TOPSIS

Abstract Previous studies on risks of heritage sites have paid attention to natural disasters, pests and diseases. Few has focused on systemic risks caused by human factors, such as theft, illegal construction and vandalism. In addition, the prevailing method of risk assessment aim at grade determination but ignoring the assessment of management capability. As a result, this kind of assessment cannot serve as the guidance for risk management and prevention directly. In order to satisfy the demand of the historic development and protection, we apply entropy weight and TOPSIS methods to evaluate the risk management priorities of protected historical and cultural sites in 31 provinces of China (excluding Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan). Based on the provincial cross-section data on safety risks of heritage sites, a multi-level indicator system including risk source, risk management and risk-bearing is proposed from the aspects of necessity and feasibility respectively. Results indicate that Henan, Hainan and Shanxi have the highest priority for risk management, while Jilin, Yunnan and Ningxia have the lowest priority. Priorities in 31 provinces are classified into five clusters according to the value of TOPSIS, and the sort of priority is not always in line with that of necessity or feasibility respectively. Finally, relevant recommendation is provided for decision-makers.