Study Evaluates Bio-based Retrofitting for Heritage Buildings to Enhance Sustainability
A recent study published in Scientific Reports has introduced an integrated framework to evaluate bio-based retrofitting strategies for heritage buildings. The research combines Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA), Circular Economy (CE) evaluation, Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) modeling. The study focuses on heritage buildings in Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Oman, aiming to improve sustainability and circularity without compromising historical value. The framework assesses environmental impacts, circularity, and cost-effectiveness of bio-based materials compared to conventional retrofitting methods. The study highlights the potential of bio-based materials, such as mycelium, straw, hemp, and wood, to reduce carbon emissions and enhance building performance while preserving cultural heritage. 
