Stakeholders’ Influence on Environmental Sustainability of Reusing Religious Heritage in the UK: A Case of Historic Churches

Abstract

Current global pressures on energy consumption have elevated the objective of energy efficiency both within the scientific and legislative agenda. This is due to increasing scarcity of natural resources and impacts on climate change originating from traditional fossil fuel-based energy generation. However, as the momentum gathers for improving environmental sustainability of buildings, it is inevitable that no aspect of building sector could be left out in meeting the carbon emission reduction target for the building sector. An aspect identified for potential reduction in energy use is religious heritage; especially those currently undergoing reuse for other public uses. Presently, little is achieved with regards to reducing environmental impacts of reusing these buildings. The paper aims is to investigate influence of heritage building stakeholders on strategies to improve environmental sustainability of reusing historic churches. The objective is geared towards improved process and approach for their sustainable reuse. Using a questionnaire survey, this study engaged heritage professionals involved in the refurbishment of religious heritage across the UK. Findings shows that environmental impacts of reusing historic churches have not yet been factored into these projects and that heritage building professionals’ influence and perception is vital to reducing environmental impact of these buildings. Further findings suggests other material issues for improved process and/or decision involving reuse of these buildings should include holistic sustainability objectives and agenda for effective energy use management. The paper conclude greater emphasis on energy management and waste reduction would need to be integrated into the strategic and business planning for sustainable reuse of these buildings.

Keywords: environmental sustainability, religious heritage, stakeholders, influence