Nature-based Solutions in the Cultural Heritage Sector: Opportunities, Challenges, and Pathways Forward

Nature-based solutions (NbS) have emerged as effective measures rooted in natural processes and ecosystems to mitigate communities' vulnerability to climate and environmental changes. Within the context of cultural heritage, NbS present novel opportunities to combat climate change while preserving historical and cultural assets at the same time. This article delves into the potential of NbS within the cultural heritage sector, examining their role in climate adaptation and preservation efforts, and seeks to elucidate the integration of NbS with heritage conservation practices.

Cultural Heritage and NbS for Climate Adaptation

Nature-based solutions hold significant potential in the context of cultural heritage for mitigating climate change impacts. Green infrastructures, such as historic parks and gardens, and blue infrastructures, including urban lakes and canals in historic contexts, are NbS themselves that enhance climate resilience and foster effective climate action. These cultural heritage sites not only represent our history but also offer innovative solutions to contemporary environmental challenges.

The Role of Historic Parks and Gardens

Historic parks and gardens play a crucial role in urban environments, providing vital green spaces that contribute to cooling cities, improving air quality, and managing stormwater. Moreover, their biodiversity enhances resilience to climate change and fosters community involvement and awareness about climate issues, making them indispensable components of climate adaptation strategies. They are vibrant ecosystems that contribute significantly to our environmental well-being.

Untapped Opportunities in Historic Buildings

Historic buildings present numerous opportunities for integrating NbS, such as green roofs and vertical gardens, which not only enhance energy efficiency and ecological value but also reduce the urban heat island effect. Moreover, historic buildings can serve as habitats for various species, thereby contributing to biodiversity conservation. For example, city walls have been found to host a wide range of lower and higher plant species, as evidenced by our projects. Thus, historic buildings provide a myriad of ecological and cultural services, and they have also been shown to enhance mental health and well-being.

However, the potential of NbS in historic buildings remains largely untapped, highlighting the need for recognition and integration into heritage conservation efforts to maximize their environmental and cultural benefits.

Challenges in Integrating NbS with Heritage Conservation

Despite the potential benefits, challenges in integrating NbS with heritage conservation practices persist. Concerns about their negative impact on historic materials and structures, as well as a lack of awareness and coordination, hinder widespread adoption. However, research has revealed an interesting phenomenon: Instead of accelerating the deterioration of building materials, it can rather slow down the process. For example, by protecting surfaces from various decay factors such as rain, UV radiation, pollutants and other weather and erosion factors. There are recent studies that show that certain vegetation can rather act as a protective shield by dampening thermal fluctuations or slowing down stone decay. Addressing these challenges requires a careful balance between preservation standards and sustainability requirements, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange, e.g. in the context of heritage education.

Outlook and Actions to be Taken

Looking ahead, it is imperative to recognize the significance of nature-based solutions (NbS) in heritage preservation and take proactive steps to maximize their potential impact. Adapting NbS frameworks to align with the specific needs and principles of heritage conservation is paramount. This necessitates the development of tailored training programs to empower heritage practitioners with the knowledge and skills required to effectively integrate NbS into heritage management practices.

Furthermore, fostering collaboration among stakeholders is essential for generating innovative solutions and approaches. By facilitating dialogue and cooperation between heritage organizations, environmental agencies, policymakers, and local communities, we can leverage collective expertise to address complex challenges and achieve sustainable outcomes.

At a policy level, advocating for the integration of NbS and heritage conservation on both national and regional scales is critical. This entails advocating for supportive policies, incentives, and funding mechanisms that prioritize the incorporation of NbS into heritage preservation strategies.

Lastly, ongoing research is indispensable for advancing our understanding of NbS in the context of heritage conservation. By investing in interdisciplinary research initiatives, we can fill knowledge gaps, refine best practices, and inform evidence-based decision-making.

By undertaking these actions collectively, we can ensure that our cultural heritage assumes a pivotal role in climate adaptation efforts, simultaneously preserving our past and safeguarding our future for generations to come.

Constanze Fuhrmann