A Digital-Index Framework for Earthen Heritage Conservation in Semi-Arid Regions

The conservation of historic earthen buildings in semi‑arid regions raises critical challenges in balancing authenticity, material compatibility, and climatic resilience. Recent climatic extremes—such as more intense rainfall, prolonged droughts, and higher temperature fluctuations—have intensified moisture‑related deterioration and salt crystallization, questioning the sufficiency of traditional conservation doctrine. This paper combines theoretical review with a synthesis of contemporary international standards to propose a digital‑index conservation framework for earthen heritage in semi‑arid environments. The methodology includes content analysis of key charters (Venice Charter, ICOMOS–ISCS Principles, ۲۰۱۹), recent ICCROM and UNESCO guidelines, and a focus on heritage information modeling (HIM) and ۳D documentation.The study demonstrates that integrating digital documentation (e.g., photogrammetry, IR thermography, and HBIM) enhances the accuracy of pathology assessment and supports judicious material selection. A proposed decision‑making model links types of deterioration with conservation principles and field‑specific strategies, emphasizing compatibility with traditional materials and resilience to climate change. The paper concludes that historic earthen conservation should be understood as a digitally informed, interdisciplinary practice, not only preserving authenticity and legibility but also adapting to emerging environmental risks.

کلیدواژه ها:

earthen heritage conservation ، pathology assessment ، digital documentation ، material compatibility ، heritage information modeling ، climate adaptationIntroduction