Fixing Our Broken Planet is now the museum’s second most visited space, after the iconic dinosaur exhibits.
With projections of 2.5 to three million visitors in its first year, the gallery is proving to be a major success in engaging the public with environmental science.
Professor Louise Heathwaite, Executive Chair of the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), said:
The popularity of the Fixing Our Broken Planet gallery shows that the public are not only curious about the challenges facing our planet, but also eager to learn and engage with environmental science.
The gallery is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the best of NERC investments over the last 60 years.
Science that inspires action
The gallery explores how scientists are unlocking solutions to address climate change and biodiversity loss.
Early visitor feedback shows its impact, including:
- a new generation of advocates for the planet has emerged
- 43% of all museum visitors chose to visit the new gallery
- 82% said they were more likely to take action to protect the natural world after their visit
The gallery is complemented by Find Your Climate Action, an initiative offering practical steps for individuals to help protect the planet.
Additionally, Generation Hope, is an annual programme aiming to equip young people to take action on the climate crisis.
The programme is an excellent example of the impact of empowering young people to engage with others by creating a sense of community and collectivism.
Connecting communities across the UK
The gallery’s reach extends beyond London through the ‘Interconnected’ programme, supporting museums and cultural organisations across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
These partners receive curated content from the gallery and access to NHM scientists and resources, enabling communities nationwide to explore solutions to the planetary emergency.