Visitors to the iconic Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland are inadvertently contributing to the deterioration of this exquisite World Heritage Site by embedding coins into its distinctive basalt columns. The practice, perceived by some as a harmless token of their visit, is proving to be harmful. Authorities have reported that the rusting and expansion of these coins—up to three times their original size—results in significant physical and aesthetic damage to the columns, which form the striking natural landscape of Count Antrim.

Cliff Henry, a National Trust nature engagement officer, warned of the detrimental effects as he explained that the coins, which come from various countries around the world, create unsightly stains through the oxidation of metals like copper, nickel, and iron, leading to the crumbling of the rock formations. With 648,000 visitors recorded last year, the pressure on this natural wonder is palpable. The National Trust and Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust have initiated measures to tackle this issue, including hiring conservation specialists to safely remove coins from ten test locations. The estimated cost for this removal project is around £30,000.

The Giant’s Causeway’s unique geological features were formed 50 to 60 million years ago when volcanic activity led to molten basalt cooling and contracting to create these now-famous hexagonal columns. Given its history and significance, the recent trend of damaging the site with coins is particularly troubling. Authorities are responding by erecting signs that urge visitors to keep coins in their pockets, emphasising the desire to preserve the causeway for future generations. As Henry noted, “We protect and care for places so people and nature can thrive,” highlighting the need for responsible tourism.

This situation has parallels in other tourist hotspots. In Paris, similar actions were taken following the damage caused by visitors attaching padlocks to the Pont des Arts, which resulted in a partial collapse in 2014. Such incidents raise vital questions about the impact of mass tourism on cultural and natural heritage sites.

In response to growing concerns about the environmental repercussions of tourism at the Giant’s Causeway, the National Trust has commissioned a year-long study to evaluate how over one million annual visitors affect both the landscape and the local community. This marks a pioneering effort to assess the extensive influence of tourism on a World Heritage Site, an undertaking that could set a precedent for other regions.

Despite facing challenges, the Giant’s Causeway is currently viewed more favourably than in the past. The International Union for Conservation of Nature has stated that the site is no longer of 'significant concern' in terms of its conservation outlook, having benefitted from measures aimed at alleviating some of the pressures associated with tourism and development. However, shadows still loom over the area due to growing worries about possible future projects that might clash with the site’s protected status.

As discussions surrounding the preservation of the Giant’s Causeway evolve, it is clear that a delicate balance must be maintained between welcoming visitors and safeguarding this cherished natural wonder for generations to come.

Reference Map:

Source: Noah Wire Services