Description/achievement of initiative
Cultural institutions have unique physical sites, living and non-living collections, and scientific and humanities research capacities that can support locally-driven solutions, and nationally and globally-significant changes. As trusted public resources, with staff skilled in public engagement and communication, they can provide the information, interpretation, and engagement frequently missing in the design of policy and product initiatives. Institutional leaders in climate action in the sector address energy and resource efficiency, provide climate education, advocate for sustainable practices, and steward heritage resources that represent both risk and solutions.
Implementation methodologies
-'Handbook of Climate Change Communication' published in 2017, 2018
-conference in April 2018 on 'Museums and Climate Change', with IPCC, UNFCCC, museum sector and academics
-'Addressing the Challenges of Climate Change Communication Across Various Audiences' published in 2018
-networking events
-advocacy toolkits and advice
-current study underway on strategic research questions for museums with natural heritage collections
-network members produce film clips for public education and information
-they provide advice to other members and the wider sector on connecting their work with the SDGs and climate action.
Arrangements for Capacity-Building and Technology Transfer
This partnership aims to build capacity for climate change action, through supporting museum workers, and partners, to develop shared understandings and action plans towards climate action. Capacity building comes through participating and supporting network members to connect with one another, and through advocacy from network members locally and globally, through e.g. submitting evidence and advocacy pieces to inquiries, social media, and through seeking funding to continue collaboration.
Coordination mechanisms/governance structure
This partnership aims to accelerate action towards the SDGs through effective partnerships between academics, NGOs and the public, through supporting effective engagement in museums. Co-ordination comes through organising conferences, and participating in international networks (e.g. Coalition of Museums for Climate Justice, Cultural Sector of 'We Are Still In', Museums and Climate Change Network), and by working to connect networks and network members with one another for collective benefit.
Partner(s)
Curating Tomorrow
Tyndall Manchester, University of Manchester
Future Earth
Cultural Sector of 'We Are Still In'