On 2 & 3 March 2023, Whitechapel Gallery and Gallery Climate Coalition hosted a two-day symposium tackling the critical environmental issues facing the UK’s public arts institutions.

The event featured voices from leading visual arts and environmental organisations as well as change-makers beyond the sector, including Just Stop Oil spokesperson Emma Brown, Director of Tate Modern Frances Morris, and the founder and CEO of Julie’s Bicycle, Alison Tickell, concluding with a performance from Love Ssega.

The Climate Crisis >> Art Action Resource Hub is designed to be an evolving hub, bringing together films of the event, opportunities for local action and climate justice, and key resources shared across the two days.

In addition to this, GCC is currently working on a Decarbonisation Action Plan specific to the public sector, which builds on the conversations, topics and questions raised during the syposium. Set to be launched in April 2023, this will include step by step recommendations on meeting emission reduction targets, alongside specific guidance on climate control, exhibition design, shipping, loan agreements, digital emissions and insurance implications.