The Risk Map of Cross-Regional Cultural Heritage: From a Perspective of Slow Degradation

Abstract

The Cross-Regional Cultural Heritage (CRCH) is a continuous, large-spanned, and comprehensive system with a large number and diversity of components. To support the integrated conservation of CRCH, an analytical approach with simple structure and easy operation is needed. Therefore, this paper aims to conduct risk maps to interpret, understand, and manage the slow degradation of built heritage in the daily environment. The hazard factors of slow degradation in the environment are extracted and translated into meteorological data for mapping with the Geographic Information Systems (GIS). A risk map to evaluate the risk level of the heritage is obtained by overlapping the vulnerability and hazard factors. With the case study of the Chinese Eastern Railway (CER), the risk maps revealed the risk condition and spatial distribution pattern of CRCH, based on which a network-connected working platform is developed, and suggestions for solutions are proposed. In terms of the operational plan for conservation works, the graded architectural risk sections are delineated. The priority and extent of intervention are proposed according to the degree of urgency and preventive conservation measures can be implemented in advance by using weather forecast data. In terms of social management strategy, through a level-by-level penetration education model, the social awareness of heritage conservation can be cultivated, the technical methods for restoration and maintenance will be trained, and the operating system for monitoring and inspection can be established. Relevant stakeholders, such as government officials, experts, users, and visitors can participate together in the preventive conservation process of the heritage.