ABSTRACT
This chapter argues that the historical separation of nature and culture in museums has led to a slowness in confronting the impact of humans on the planet and in recognising the inextricable links between social and climate justice. As museums begin to wake up to the urgency of the crisis, a unique role is identified for them as institutions of the long term, with strong public trust and extensive reach. They can also unify the areas of climate and biodiversity which have been separated into their own international conventions and Conferences of the Parties (COPs). Museums have two main areas of impact: as exemplars of good practice in decarbonisation, reducing waste and pollution and improving biodiversity; and as vehicles for engaging large numbers of people to make active changes in their own lives. Climate communication challenges are described, along with examples of recent practice. Concerns about museum ‘neutrality’ are seen to be illusory, and the chapter concludes with an argument for a new ethical museum ecology.
