New grant scheme launched to improve environmental sustainability
The latest round of the Theatre Improvement Scheme, in association with the Wolfson Foundation, will offer theatres grants of up to £20,000 for projects focusing on Improving Environmental Sustainability.
Protecting the environment is one of the biggest social issues right now and the theatre sector is keen to be more environmentally sustainable. While operational changes can make a difference in reducing energy wastage and carbon footprint, major energy consumption comes from heating, ventilation, stage machinery and lighting.
Sadly, many of the UK’s stock of more than 1,000 active theatres, particularly the older ones, do not meet today’s environmental standards. Theatre buildings and the plant that services them are in desperate need of investment to make them more efficient. In our recent survey of theatres planning capital works in the next 5 years, 50% cited environmental improvements as one of the key reasons for the works.
It is hoped that these grants will support a range of projects that consider different ways theatre buildings can reduce their environmental impact. From sedum roofs to new windows, building management systems to more efficient water heaters, funding will be given to projects that demonstrate how a small intervention can have a big impact.
Theatre operators can apply for grants of up to £20,000 towards their building or equipment as part of the scheme. The deadline for applications is Friday 13 September 2019.
Cover image: Sedum roof at the Young Vic - part of the redevelopment by Haworth Tompkins. Photo by Philip Vile.