The HeriTACE project brings together a transdisciplinary team of research institutes, authorities, SMEs, and industry experienced in design, technology, and policymaking in the domains of conservation, buildings and energy. A significant increase in deep renovations of heritage buildings has the potential to lead to effective energy demand reductions and readiness for the transition to R2ES. Based on prior research and field knowledge supported by various EU and national projects, bottlenecks have been identified that prevent the futureproofing of heritage buildings and its replication. To overcome them, HeriTACE proposes innovative technical solutions, integrated into a holistic and multi-scale renovation approach, by developing and validating: (1) A replicable holistic assessment model and standardised processes to create a holistic vision and plan on the renovation requirements for heritage townhouses in historical neighbourhoods, (2) Optimal and integrated design approaches for the deep renovation of heritage townhouses, with well-considered, targeted and minimal invasive renovation measures, (3) Durable insulation and air tightness solutions for the renovation of building envelopes, respecting their heritage values and traditional building technology, (4) Optimised and smart controlled HVAC-concepts adapted to heritage townhouses, optimising comfort, and indoor air quality precisely where and when the building users need it, and (5) Integrated R²ES-based energy supply solutions, maximising the share of local R²ES in heritage buildings within historical neighbourhoods. The project will deliver solutions for authorities and designers to envision and govern a sustainable energy future for heritage townhouses in historical neighbourhoods, thus putting the EU Green Deal and New European Bauhaus into practice. Close collaboration between researchers, SMEs and industry shall increase the availability of high-quality solutions for the building conservation sector.

PERICLES promotes sustainable governance of cultural heritage (CH) in European coastal and maritime regions through the development of a theoretically grounded, multi-actor participatory framework. To meet this challenge, PERICLES has formed a strong interdisciplinary consortium comprised of research institutions, regional government and heritage partners representing 15 different disciplines. PERICLES addresses the following objectives: a) develop an in-depth, situated understanding of the CH of marine and coastal land/seascapes, including knowledge across local, spatial, environmental, social and economic aspects; b), develop practical tools, based on stakeholder involvement and participatory governance, for mapping, assessing and mitigating risks to CH and to enhance sustainable growth and increase employment by harnessing CH assets; c), provide policy advice to improve integration of CH in key marine and environmental policies and the implementation of associated EU directives; and d), develop effective knowledge exchange networks. To fulfill these objectives PERICLES uses a scientific approach guided by the theories of: a) space, place, and identity; b) resilience and adaptation; and c) deliberative and participatory governance. We will apply a range of participatory, deliberative and action research methods from the social sciences and arts directly involving decision-makers, stakeholders and the public. PERICLES meets the needs of the work program by: contributing to European efforts to promote evidence-based research on the impact of participatory approaches in CH policies and governance; using a multi- and transdisciplinary approach; addressing in/tangible CH in a geographically balanced way; involving and developing CH networks of local stakeholders and policy makers; and contributing to improved implementation of European policies on coastal zones and maritime areas and providing evidence on how to link environmental and cultural policies.