Exploring the intersection of circular economy principles and cultural heritage in European cities, the text delves into the significance of adaptive reuse of cultural heritage buildings within the context of sustainable urban development. It highlights the evolving policy landscape post-World War II, emphasising the rising importance of cultural heritage in European governance frameworks. The article underscores the critical role of cultural heritage in fostering attractiveness, innovation, and social cohesion within urban environments.
Moreover, the analysis delves into the integration of circular economy strategies with architectural conservation, shedding light on the environmental and economic benefits of preserving cultural heritage buildings. By examining the inclusion of cultural heritage in circular city plans, the study aims to provide insights into the alignment of heritage preservation with contemporary sustainability goals. It also presents a systematic review of circular city plans across European cities, offering a comprehensive overview of the strategies adopted to promote adaptive reuse and circularity.
Furthermore, the text outlines a hypothesis-driven approach to evaluate the extent to which European cities incorporate cultural heritage and architectural conservation in their circular economy programmes. By assessing the presence of heritage buildings in circular city plans, the study aims to identify trends and opportunities for enhancing the integration of cultural heritage preservation within urban sustainability initiatives. Overall, the document serves as a valuable resource for professionals and enthusiasts seeking to understand the evolving relationship between cultural heritage, circular economy principles, and sustainable urban development in Europe.
