Swiss Challenge on Climate Resilient Built Heritage

In December 2024 a four-year project entitled “Climate-resilient Built Heritage” was launched in Switzerland aimed at developing strategies and knowledge to support architectural heritage in successfully responding to the challenges of climate change. Led by Prof. Dr. Nina Mekacher from Bern University Applied Sciences, and conducted in collaboration with the University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland and the University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Western Switzerland, the project emphasizes a transdisciplinary approach that bridges research and society. The research operates on four levels: first, gathering data to identify the main climate-related changes affecting heritage sites; second, formulating indications for preventive actions to enhance resilience; third creating expert and lay networks; fourth formulating policy objectives. A survey allowed to contact interested parties who are willing to discuss problems and share experiences. Several case studies, across various climatic regions, building types, and materials will be analysed. The key challenges to address are related to the use of existing and future climate data to predict how immovable cultural heritage will be affected, to assess risk and vulnerability, planning effective interventions, and producing accessible data for stakeholders. Ultimately, the project aims to generate practical knowledge and actionable recommendations, fostering an integrated, evidence-based approach.