Heritage Conservation

The conservation of historic places, buildings in particular, contributes to healthy, vibrant communities. In addition to providing venues for cultural education and the preservation of social memory, the rehabilitation of historic places creates local jobs, saves money over new construction and can create tourism resources. Plus, using and reusing old buildings supports a dense urban form, reduces building waste and preserves energy embodied in existing buildings and their materials, leading to the adage that “the greenest building is the one that is already built.” Heritage conservation is fundamental to Smart Growth.

“One of the most important elements in containing urban sprawl is to intensify inner city land use. In most cities, the rehabilitation of old commercial or industrial buildings in the inner city, an area which is already served by urban infrastructure, poses a major opportunity for high-density development.” (Source: Tomalty, R. and Alexander, D. 2005. Smart Growth in Canada: Implementation of a Planning Concept. Prepared for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation).

Learn More:
“Why protect historic places?”
“How Historic Preservation Can Help the Environment”
“The Greenest Building Is… the One that is Already Built”
“Heritage Conservation Save Energy – Sustainable Development”