Potential Role of Life Cycle Assessment for Cultural Heritage Conservation Practices in Türkiye

This study emphasizes the significance of integrating Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), a systematic method used to evaluate the environmental impacts of a process throughout its entire life cycle, as a vital tool for cultural heritage conservation in Türkiye. The research identifies gaps between current practices and the potential for sustainable development, revealing opportunities for improvement in conservation efforts. While examples from Türkiye often focus on preserving the authenticity of historical structures with visual and cultural value, energy efficiency and the environmental impacts of these buildings are frequently overlooked. An analysis of international case studies demonstrates the successful integration of LCA into restoration projects worldwide, highlighting missed opportunities for Türkiye. By applying LCA, it is possible to facilitate the selection of environmentally friendly methods and materials, promote stakeholder participation, and ensure that restoration practices prioritize sustainability. Therefore, this study aims to reveal the potential of the LCA method in cultural heritage conservation and to demonstrate how its application can contribute to the enhancement of conservation practices in Türkiye, ultimately helping to preserve its cultural heritage for future generations.