Evaluation of heritage buildings using environmental and life cycle approaches
ENBuildings of European countries use ahnost 40 % of the global energy, by generating the 40-50% of the total output of greenhouse gases. The heating requirement is responsible for almost 80% of the energy demand in houses. Since historic buildings constitute 25% of the European built environment they have a role to play in deliven'ng C02 emissions reduction targets along with the rest of the domestic stock. Reuse of existing heritage buildings is a creative Challenge for all countries. This paper, through literature research and theoretical analyses, discusses different approaches for evaluation of heritage buildings’ sustainability. Comparison of new buildings and renovated heritage buildings are made with respect to environmental aspects and life cycle analyses. Renovation and refunctioning of heritage buildings are giving benefit in saving of material resources (compared with new buildings), reduction of environmental pollution because of materials production and transportation, reduction of production waste and energy needed for construction. Life cycle analyses is presented a good method to evaluate environmental issues and to make sustainable decisions. Social and cultural aspects of sustainability as an important part of sustainability are also discussed.
