Cob Vernacular Architecture Conservation and Its Contribution Towards a Sustainable Built Environment

Cob is a low-impact building material with a minimal carbon footprint that doesn’t require energy-intensive manufacturing processes, uses locally available materials, is non-toxic and biodegradable. Moreover, cob vernacular architecture is often deeply rooted in local cultures and traditions. By conserving and maintaining these structures, cultural heritage is preserved and a connection to traditional building methods, which can foster a sense of identity and pride in local communities is maintained. In this chapter, the importance of cob vernacular heritage conservation and how this can contribute towards a sustainable built environment with an emphasis on the sustainable properties of this material is discussed. The chapter content is in alignment with the United Nations Sustainability Development Goals and with well stablished international conservation methodologies and philosophies, such as the Venice Charter, the Nara Document on authenticity, among others.