We have partnered with Museums + Heritage to sponsor the new category at the Museums + Heritage Awards, which take place in May.

The Sustainable Project of the Year Award, which is free to enter, will celebrate the UK museum, heritage or cultural organisation which has created the most outstanding environmentally sustainable project or exhibition.

Why we’re doing this

Urgent action needs to be taken for the future of our environment and it’s never been more important for us all to think, and act, sustainably through the work we all do in the heritage sector.

Isabel Hunt, Executive Director of Business Innovation and Insight at The National Lottery Heritage Fund

In our funding guidance we set out how we expect all projects to improve their environmental sustainability and particularly to create positive benefits for nature.

In light of the climate and ecological emergency, we think it’s more important than ever that we celebrate those organisations and projects that share our commitment to sustainability.

Sustainable Project of the Year

Isabel Hunt, Executive Director of Business Innovation and Insight at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “Urgent action needs to be taken for the future of our environment and it’s never been more important for us all to think, and act, sustainably through the work we all do in the heritage sector. 

“We are delighted to launch The Sustainable Project of the Year award which will provide much-deserved recognition to the heritage organisations and projects which have made great strides, or indeed small but innovative steps, in reducing their environmental impact and committing to sustainability.”

What we’re looking for  

We’re looking for projects which can demonstrate examples of best practice in:

•    managing environmental impacts, particularly energy efficiency, recycling and reuse
•    sourcing materials 
•    sustainable procurement 
•    green visitor travel planning

We’re also asking entrants to identify wider economic, social or environmental benefits – to the museum/organisation or the community – which have come about through “thinking sustainably”.

You do not have to have had previous investment from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Anna Preedy, director of the annual Museums + Heritage Awards, said: “These awards recognise the amazing achievements, creativity, innovation, hard work and utter commitment evident throughout the museums and heritage sector.

“The awards have become the benchmark for excellence and the shortlistees and winners represent the very best of the best.”

Our commitment to environmental sustainability

Read our interview with Museums + Heritage Advisor about why we're supporting this award.