The preservation of heritage buildings is not just a matter of cultural significance; it has profound implications for the construction sector as well. Recent research led by Alaa O. Shehata from the Architectural Engineering and Urban Planning Department at Port Said University has shed light on the integration of smart technologies into heritage preservation, a trend that promises to reshape the industry landscape.
This comprehensive bibliometric analysis, published in the journal ‘Buildings,’ examined 216 peer-reviewed articles from 2020 to 2024, revealing how innovations stemming from Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0 are enhancing the preservation of cultural heritage. “The adoption of smart technologies is crucial for improving the efficiency and sustainability of heritage preservation,” Shehata emphasized. “Our research highlights the need for a dual approach that combines physical methods—like smart devices and processes—with digital methods, including advanced data management and monitoring technologies.”
The findings indicate that a significant portion of recent literature focuses on interoperability, monitoring, and data management, which are essential for creating a cohesive strategy in heritage preservation. However, the study also points out a glaring gap in community engagement and training, which currently accounts for only 2-6% of the literature. This underscores the need for a more inclusive approach that involves local communities in the preservation process.
For the construction industry, the implications are substantial. The research suggests that smart applications such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), Digital Twins (DTs), and the Internet of Things (IoT) can streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance the accuracy of restoration efforts. “These technologies not only improve documentation and monitoring but also provide innovative solutions to traditional preservation challenges,” Shehata noted.
As cities evolve into smart environments, the integration of cultural heritage into urban planning becomes increasingly feasible. The ability to employ technologies like 3D scanning and virtual reality enhances public engagement and education regarding heritage sites, making them more accessible and appealing to visitors. This is particularly relevant for tourism, where immersive experiences can significantly boost foot traffic and revenue.
The research also calls for policymakers to develop interoperability standards and address data security issues while advocating for funding to support innovative, low-cost technologies. “It’s essential for the construction and heritage sectors to collaborate closely, ensuring that advancements in technology are effectively integrated into preservation efforts,” Shehata stated.
As the construction industry grapples with the challenges of sustainability and efficiency, the insights from this study present a roadmap for leveraging smart technologies in heritage preservation. The potential for improving both the preservation of cultural assets and the operational efficiency of construction firms is immense, paving the way for a future where heritage and innovation coexist harmoniously.
For more information about Alaa O. Shehata’s work, you can visit lead_author_affiliation. The findings from this significant study can be found in the article published in ‘Buildings,’ which translates to ‘Edificios’ in English.
