Conservation-restoration, also referred to as conservation, is a profession devoted to the preservation of cultural heritage for the future. Conservation activities include examination, documentation, treatment and preventative care. All of this work is supported by research and education.

However, today the definition of the role of conservation has widened and would more accurately be described as that of ethical stewardship. The traditional definition of the role of conservator involves the examination, conservation and preservation of cultural heritage using “any methods that prove effective in keeping that property in as close to its original condition as possible for as long as possible.”