Sustainable Management of Historic Environment in the Context of Sustainable Development

Sustainable Management of Historic Environment in the Context of Sustainable Development

KOÇAK, Hüseyin
KORKUT, Hasan

This study examines the relation between sustainable development and the management of historic environment. The historic environment is a resource that should be sustained for the benefit of both present and future generations. The term "sustainable development" has risen to international prominence following the publication of the Brundtland Report. The fundamental understanding of the sustainable development is that environment and economy can not be seen separately. It can be defined as policies for economic growth which allow the needs of the present to be met without jeopardizing those of future generations. Historic environment and traditional residence patterns should not be regarded only as our cultural variables, but in accordance with the concept of “sustainable development”, as housing stocks too. They have been accepted as a “public trust”. In order to achieve a sustainable management of historic environment, changes in attitudes and behavior will be required on all levels of society. For a smooth transition, all segments of society need to be aware of and accept the need to change. Education, research, and full-scale demonstration projects with local participation will be necessary. Besides these changes, international cooperation in both technical and financial fields is crucial.

Conference or Workshop Item
PeerReviewed

2009-06

262