The Royal Institution, 21 Albemarle Street, London W1S 4BS
Thursday 22 October 2009  7.00pm - 8.45pm

Part of the EGOR: Environmental Guidelines Opportunities and Risks research cluster sponsored by the AHRC/EPSRC Science and Heritage Research Programme.

Book now for this key event!

Cultural heritage in the UK is a wonderfully rich resource which brings enjoyment and value to many people and communities, as well as adding to the UK economy through tourism and the leisure industry. Yet despite the very real contribution our heritage culture makes to our daily life, this non-renewable resource is under pressure.

Over the last 50 years, managing this cultural heritage resource has relied heavily on the extensive use of energy resources, primarily heating and cooling systems, to preserve museum, library and archive collections. However, in response to climate change, shrinking budgets, and rising energy costs, assumptions about how we sustain the UK's rich heritage is being called into question.

What is our collective responsibility for caring for the planet whilst at the same time ensuring our important heritage collections are properly maintained for future generations. Is science and technology the answer? This event will explore through presentations and performance the themes and challenges relating to sustaining cultural heritage in the UK and reveal how science is helping us to understand and manage material change.

These issues will be brought to life through short performances by Kandu Arts For Sustainable Development. Dr Philip Ball will be in the Chair and expert speakers will include consultant Dr Jonathan Ashley-Smith, former Head of Conservation at the V&A.

This important event will encourage the audience to think more deeply about the complex issues relating to heritage, the effects of climate change and the threats it poses to survival. At the end of the presentations, the audience will have the opportunity to discuss these issues looking at personal responsibilities and values, as well as the responsibilities and values of the different organisations, professions and communities affected.

How to book

For more information and to book, visit the RIGB website or call 020 7409 2992.   

Tickets cost £8 standard, £6 concessions, £4 Ri MembersPrice