Tutela delle aree storiche urbane e strategie di trasformazione sostenibile. Sfide e opportunità per la città vecchia di Genova

This contribution examines the management of transformations in historic urban areas from a sustainable development perspective, focusing on global and local changes, particularly in Genoa's old town. It analyses regulatory frameworks for heritage protection, starting with the definition of sustainable development as balancing human needs with the wise use of resources for future generations (UNESCO 2013), applied to historic urban areas. Drawing on studies from the University of Genoa's Department of Architecture and Design, and data on recent changes in Genoa's historic centre, the paper explores challenges and opportunities in preserving this essential heritage for sustainable societal growth. The case study of Genoa’s old town will address values to be preserved and passed on, as outlined in the Operational Guidelines for the Implementation of the World Heritage Convention, along with current transformation needs identified in discussions with local authorities. The analysis includes transformations outside regulatory control, offering local examples reflecting national trends. Both private initiatives and major public works, if not well-managed, may threaten heritage values. Finally, the paper emphasizes the importance of local community involvement in heritage protection, framing it as a cultural issue rather than solely a regulatory one.