This research combines a new, radical theory in archaeology on the non-correspondence between the material and social action with the well-established ecological approach of environmental archaeology. In doing so, we will resolve pervasive issues that have arisen from a century-long tradition of enquiry and provide an entirely new perspective on one of the world’s most important cultural heritage sites. Demonstrating a link between the two key debates - the issue of demise and the function of its water management infrastructure - will help to finally resolve those long standing issues and draw them into a unified perspective on Angkor’s demise that has implications for the history of low-density urbanism globally.

This project represents an innovative research design that combines an innovation in archaeological theory with well-established techniques for environmental analysis, and provides an integrated model whose explanatory capacity encompasses phenomena at different spatial and temporal scales. This research represents the first application of systematic hydrological research and modelling at Angkor, and will allow the development of a methodology that is consistent for all regions containing low density cities.
We will provide APSARA and the UNESCO International Co-ordinating Committee with a new perspective on the magnitude of the city and the operation and significance of its water management system. This is highly significant for the Cambodian government.