PRESS RELEASE:
INHERIT: Sustainable Conservation of Cultural Heritage: Strategies and Proposals
On December 16, 2024, the participatory workshop “Technical Aspects of Heritage Buildings” was successfully held under the auspices of the ELLINIKI ETAIRIA Society for Environment and Culture (ELLET).The workshop was organized in the framework of the European Horizon project “INHERIT” and was hosted at the historic building of ELLET in Tripodon Street, Plaka. The event brought together representatives from the Ministry of Culture, the Ministry of Environment, the Municipality of Athens, academics, engineers and research institutions, as well as experts in the field of architectural heritage.
The workshop is part of the participatory approach of the INHERIT programme for the sustainable conservation and energy upgrading of historic buildings. A total of 19 partners from 13 countries (11 EU Member States and 2 associated countries) are involved in the project. Among the partners are the National Technical University of Athens, through the University Institute of Communication and Computer Systems and ELLET, through its Councils for Energy and Climate Crisis and for Architectural Heritage. The ELLET building is one of the eight pilot sites of the project, where digital tools are being applied to improve energy efficiency, achieve climate resilience, social innovation, while ensuring the protection of cultural heritage.
During the workshop, participants worked in thematic groups focusing on four key areas: the institutional and financial framework, soft interventions, energy system technologies and the role of users with a focus on inclusion. Through dynamic discussions, innovative solutions and approaches for each area emerged, promoting collaboration and co-creation of ideas. Particular emphasis was placed on preserving the unique characteristics of historic buildings, while at the same time analysing the challenges posed by climate change and increasing energy demands. The discussions led to important observations which will form the basis of a “Catalogue of proposals” for the sustainable conservation of historic buildings in the context of the programme.
Some of the key points that emerged during the discussions are:
1. Formulation of policies and funding programmes combining restoration with energy efficiency upgrading.
2. Inventory and categorisation of historic buildings for tailored intervention approaches.
3. Prioritize interventions that focus on energy upgrades without altering the aesthetics of the immediate environment.
4. Development of interdisciplinary partnerships for a holistic approach to the issue, as well as ongoing research and user education.
5. Use of digital tools for the assessment of indoor conditions and rational use of energy
technologies that improve the behaviour of the historic building.
The workshop concluded with a summary of the positions developed by guest speakers and the
proposals that emerged from the four thematic tables. The final proposals, which will be formulated early in the New Year, will provide guidelines for action at local and European level. ELLET is committed to taking these proposals forward, helping to create a sustainable future for historic buildings and groups.
More information about the project:
https://www.ellet.gr/project/inherit-project/
https://inheritproject.eu/
PHOTOS: https://we.tl/t-B24CStpAyd