Conservation goes greener

This online webinar explores how cultural heritage conservation is progressively shifting toward a new culture of ‘greener conservation’, where sustainability, environmental responsibility and innovation become central elements of conservation practices.

The event presents recent developments in nature-based technologies, with particular focus on enzymatic bio-cleaning solutions based on nanostructured materials designed for the sustainable cleaning of historic stone surfaces. These biodegradable solutions allow the removal of biological patinas and deposits while preserving the physical integrity of heritage materials and minimising environmental impact.

Particular attention is given to conservation practices compatible with water-sensitive environments and fragile ecosystems, an increasingly important challenge for monuments exposed to environmental stress, biological colonisation and climate-related pressures.

Through selected case studies from Italian heritage sites, including the monumental fountains of the Royal Palace of Caserta, speakers illustrate how innovative materials and sustainable maintenance strategies can contribute to environmentally responsible conservation.

The webinar also addresses the relationship between heritage conservation, water systems and biodiversity protection, highlighting how greener conservation technologies can reduce the use of harmful chemicals and support long-term sustainable maintenance of historic monuments. The event consists of a series of short presentations by heritage professionals, conservators and researchers, followed by an interactive discussion and question and answer session with participants.

The event is open to heritage professionals, students, researchers, public institutions and environmental stakeholders interested in sustainable approaches to cultural heritage conservation.