heritage should be considered to be a fundamental enabler of sustainability

Traditional Construction – Roof Tile Crests in Himeji Castle, Japan

Posted by CJ Walsh

2014-11-11:  Traditional Building Construction Practices have a meaning and value within the Heritage of every Living Culture …

Himeji Castle, Japan
Colour photograph showing Himeji Castle, in Japan.  Photograph taken by CJ Walsh.  2010-04-21.

‘ We consider that in the face of mounting challenges such as population growth, urbanization, environmental degradation, disasters, climate change, increasing inequalities and persisting poverty, there is an urgent need for new approaches, to be defined and measured in a way which accounts for the broader picture of human progress and which emphasize harmony among peoples and between humans and nature, equity, dignity, social wellbeing and sustainability.’

Preamble, UNESCO 2013 Hangzhou Declaration

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Himeji Castle, Japan - Roof Crest Tile Information Panel
Colour photograph showing an Information Panel about the Roof Crest Tiles used in the original building and more recent repair works to Himeji Castle, Japan.  Photograph taken by CJ Walsh.  2010-04-21.

‘ We reaffirm that heritage should be considered to be a fundamental enabler of sustainability, being a source of meaning and energy, a wellspring of creativity and innovation, and a resource to address challenges and find appropriate solutions.  The extraordinary power of heritage to foster and enable truly sustainable development is especially evident when a person-centred and place-based approach is integrated into development programmes and peace-building initiatives.’

Preamble, UNESCO 2013 Hangzhou Declaration

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Himeji Castle, Japan - Display of Roof Crest Tile Samples
Colour photograph showing Samples of the Roof Crest Tiles used in Himeji Castle, Japan. Photograph taken by CJ Walsh. 2010-04-21.

” We recognize that one size does not fit all and that different cultural perspectives will result in different paths to development.  At the same time, we embrace an understanding of heritage that is open, evolving and strongly framed within a rights-based approach and the respect for diversity, the free access to which enables all individuals ‘to live and be what they choose’, thus enhancing their opportunities and human capabilities while promoting mutual understanding and exchange among peoples.”

Preamble, UNESCO 2013 Hangzhou Declaration

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Himeji Castle, Japan - Roof Detail
Colour photograph showing a Roof Detail and how the Crest Tiles are used in Himeji Castle, Japan.  Photograph taken by CJ Walsh.  2010-04-21.

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