Sustainability
We’re on a journey. Not at the starting point – and not at the finish line either. However, we are deeply committed to our planet and reducing our carbon emissions.
Our Journey
Across our site, we’re working to reduce our environmental impact and make more sustainable choices. From what happens behind the scenes to what you experience as a visitor, this is a shared effort across the organisation.
We’re proud of the progress we’ve made so far, but we’re also honest about where we are. Some areas are working well, while others are still developing. That openness helps us focus on what matters most next.
We’re currently working with Indigo on their Talking Sustainability programme, shaping a clearer action plan and more consistent approach to how we communicate sustainability. As this develops, we’re focusing on three key shifts.
1. Turning individual actions into shared standards
2. Moving from intention to measurable impact
3. Being more open about our progress with visitors
LANDMARK SUSTAINABILITY PROJECT
The challenge
After 100+ years at sea, the ship’s iron hull absorbed salt water. This trapped salt accelerates corrosion, causing the metal to rust more quickly. To slow this, we created a controlled environment around the ship, using specially designed dehumidifiers to remove moisture and preserve the hull. While effective, this system uses significant energy.
The Project
Our conservation engineer, Nicola Grahamslaw, is leading work to improve efficiency — reducing the dehumidifiers’ carbon impact. This includes upgrading sensors and software, installing more efficient fans (cutting emissions by around 30% in some areas), introducing heat recovery systems, and refining performance using data.
This work is reducing energy use while protecting the SS Great Britain for future generations. In 2023, it was recognised with Sustainable Project of the Year at the Museums + Heritage Awards, supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
How we’re improving
Individually these actions may seem small, but together they make a meaningful difference and build a foundation for what comes next. We’ll keep making it easier for visitors and our organisation to take part.
We’re taking practical steps across the site to reduce our impact:
- We’re improving energy efficiency across the site, including low-energy dehumidifiers in our Dry Dock designed to cut overall power use while also conserving the SS Great Britain.
- Reducing single-use materials and unnecessary packaging.
- Reusing materials and choosing lower-impact alternatives.
- Working with local, responsible suppliers to reduce waste. See our shop, where we source lower-impact products and work with local suppliers.
- Embedding sustainability into learning, events and experiences, including exhibitions like Ocean Photographer of the Year and our learning programmes.
We know many visitors want to make more sustainable choices, but it needs to be simple and realistic.
When you visit, you can:
- Where possible, travel by foot, bike or public transport bike. Find out about our bike racks and public transport routes here.
- Support our learning programmes exploring sustainability themes.
- Explore events and experiences inspired by environmental themes.
- Bring your own takeaway cup or fill-up at our water station at The Board Walk.
We’ll know we’re making progress when:
- Sustainability becomes part of everyday decisions.
- We can clearly measure and share our impact.
- Visitors understand what we’re doing and feel part of it.
- We’re recognised as an organisation that leads by example.
Support our work
As a charity, your help could ensure our conservation efforts are more energy efficient. Be part of our carbon-neutral journey.