Abstract

In the context of global environmental changes and the need for sustainable cultural policies, the preservation of written heritage is taking on a new dimension – combining effective conservation with a commitment to the environment. This report examines the principles of environmental sustainability in contemporary practices for the conservation and restoration of written collections, focusing on the application of so-called “green” methodologies – biodegradable materials, enzymatic solutions, anoxic disinfection, as well as energyefficient technologies in repositories. Special attention is paid to the concept of “green heritage”, understood not only as conservation with a minimal carbon footprint, but also as a strategic model for the long-term management of cultural resources. Examples from international practice that integrate sustainable solutions are analyzed. The report also highlights the challenges associated with the shortage of environmentally friendly materials, the need for a transdisciplinary approach and the need for educational policies aimed at building cultural and environmental sensitivity among specialists and the general public. In conclusion, the thesis is advocated that ecological sustainability is not an additional aspect, but an indispensable part of a new ethic in the preservation of written heritage – an ethic of respect for the past and responsibility for the future with care for the planet.
The report is under project No. KП-06-H90/6 dated 10.12.2024 on the topic: “Ecologically sustainable conservation strategy for written heritage” from the Scientific Research Fund, Competition for funding of fundamental scientific research – 2024. Supervised by Chief Asst. PhD Eng. Iskra Tsvetanska.