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How do older people conserve cultural heritage in rural areas: evidence from Zhejiang, China

Lookup NU author(s): Dr Bruce DavenportORCiD

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Abstract

This paper investigates older people’s role in the conservation of traditional cultural heritage in rural areas. The study incorporated surveys of older people and ethnographic field work in rural towns in the Zhejiang province, China. The findings suggest that older people can play an active role in cultural heritage conservation, and can also help promote the equal valorisation of tangible and intangible heritage within conservation. However, their performance is subject to a series of factors, among which in China the State is the most influential. On the basis of the findings, the authors have developed a framework to explain the relationship between the activities of older people, the State and the preservation of cultural heritage in a selected area in rural China. This article offers empirical evidence to support nascent theories about conservation and urban and rural regeneration from the perspective of an active but ageing population. It is hoped that the work presented will help policy makers justify the promotion of the engagement of local older people in the processes of cultural heritage conservation.

Publication metadata

Author(s): Yang Q, Davenport B, Zhang L

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: Journal of the Institute of Conservation

Year: 2025

Volume: 48

Issue: 1

Pages: 31-50

Online publication date: 11/02/2025

Acceptance date: 07/12/2024

Date deposited: 03/03/2026

ISSN (print): 1945-5224

ISSN (electronic): 1945-5232

Publisher: Taylor & Francis

URL: https://doi.org/10.1080/19455224.2024.2440935

DOI: 10.1080/19455224.2024.2440935

ePrints DOI: 10.57711/apnq-n489

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