Preservation vs. Conservation

Preservation and conservation both aim to protect and maintain cultural, historical, and natural resources, but they differ in approach. Preservation seeks to keep objects or sites unchanged, focusing on protecting them from deterioration through minimal intervention. Conservation involves active management, such as repairing or restoring items to ensure their longevity while maintaining their original integrity. Essentially, preservation tends to prevent further damage, maintaining things as they are, whereas conservation allows for careful intervention to prolong the life and usability of these resources. Both strategies are essential for safeguarding our shared heritage for future generations.