By Dr. R. K. Trivedi, Senior Consultant Heritage, Ex. Faculty. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University, Delhi, Faculty of the National Archive of India, India

Abstract

Climate change increasingly threatens heritage structures, especially in India, where historic buildings endure harsh monsoon cycles, salt ingress, and rising temperatures. Traditional preservation approaches, focused mainly on material authenticity, must evolve into resilience-oriented frameworks that include climate adaptation and low-carbon materials. This article explores the transition from preservation to resilience through lime-based binders, historically used in Indian masonry and essential for sustainable conservation.

Introduction

Climate change is a profound threat to cultural heritage, causing rapid deterioration of sites globally, with nearly a third of UNESCO’s natural World Heritage sites already experiencing stress. Rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and environmental fluctuations like humidity changes and freeze-thaw cycles accelerate decay, rendering traditional, static preservation methods obsolete. The critical shift is towards a resilient and adaptive conservation paradigm that embraces sustainability. In this shift, lime-based binders are essential, offering compatibility, breathability, and lower embodied carbon for repairing historic masonry, making them a cornerstone of future-proof heritage management.

India’s diverse heritage is rapidly degrading due to climate impacts—from monsoons in the south to desertification in the west. Unsuitable repair materials, especially Portland cement, worsen the problem by trapping moisture and accelerating salt damage. Cement’s rigidity and high carbon content contrast sharply with the climate-resilient qualities of lime.

Indian fieldwork demonstrates that traditional formulations—lime-surkhi-sand mortars, with organic additives—can be tailored for climate resilience. Variations reflect regional techniques, and integrating lime into policies preserves both authenticity and sustainability.

Case Study: Shekhawati Haveli Conservation

The Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, known globally as an “open-air art gallery,” features thousands of richly painted Havelis from the 18th and 19th centuries. The havelis were built by merchants and rulers during a prosperous period, and the region was a significant cultural and economic hub. These structures and their intricate frescoes depicting mythological and historical scenes are critically vulnerable to the region’s arid extremes and the challenges posed by a changing climate.

The historic structures of Shekhawati suffer severe damage, including masonry stress fractures and fresco decay, driven by extreme temperature cycles, flash rains, and salt attack. Previous repairs using rigid modern cement worsened the problem by trapping moisture and causing the original plaster to detach. To address this, conservation efforts now mandate the use of traditional lime mortar and plaster. Lime’s key qualities vapour permeability, flexibility, self-healing, and compatibility—allow repairs to blend seamlessly and ensure long-term stability by honouring the original materials science and regional craftsmanship.

Resilience Outcomes

The Shekhawati Havelis provide a powerful model-Using lime in Shekhawati Havelis demonstrates that climate action can be effectively achieved through traditional materials. Lime’s ability to manage moisture and temperature extremes is central to the long-term survival of these unique structures.

Conclusion

India’s shift from static preservation to climate resilience is essential for safeguarding Cultural Heritage. The Shekhawati example shows that embracing indigenous lime technology is the most effective strategy for sustainable conservation. Lime integrates climate action through both mitigation and adaptation, ensuring heritage survives future climate challenges.

Reference:

1. Bonazza, A. & Sardella, A. “Climate Change and Cultural Heritage: Methods and Approaches for Damage and Risk Assessment Addressed to a Practical Application.” 2023.
2. Ilay; “The Painted Towns of Shekhawati”, Prakash Books India, 2009.
3. Dastgerdi, A.S., Sargolini, M., & Pierantoni, I.“ Climate Change Challenges to Existing Cultural Heritage Policy.” 2019.
4. Bais, M. Santhanam, & Divya Rani, “Lime Manual for Conservation Works”, National Centre for Safety of Heritage Structures, IIT, Madras, 2018.
5. Sesana, E., Gagnon, A.S., Ciantelli, C., Cassar, J., & Hughes, J.J. “Climate Change Impacts on Cultural Heritage: A Literature Review.” WIREs Climate Change. 2021.
6. UNESCO. “Culture and Climate Change.” 2024. https://www.unesco.org/en/climate-change/culture.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this piece are those of the author/s and do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of AIDMI.