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Publication Research
The Path to Net Zero: Exploring Funding Options for Retrofitting Cultural Buildings
This report analyses the cost and environmental benefits, as well as the return on investment, of decarbonisation projects at seven UK cultural buildings, and explores the potential for a new funding model.
About the report
The theatres, galleries and other buildings owned or operated by the UK’s cultural organisations are essential national assets. They are also widely energy inefficient, ageing and in need of capital investment. Retrofitting (adapting buildings to be more energy efficient) can reduce carbon emissions, save costs, and support long-term organisational resilience. It could also help to address funding shortfalls for cultural infrastructure by attracting impact-motivated investment seeking positive social and environmental outcomes, alongside financial returns.
This report analyses seven representative case studies from across England and Wales to provide evidence on real-world energy and cost savings as well as the return on investment (ROI) from cultural retrofitting projects. It also identifies barriers and enablers of project success, and explores whether the available returns could support a coordinated, strategic investment approach that could expedite projects and create scale in the level of funding available.
The report is co-authored by Francesca Sanderson, Figurative and partners at Renew Culture, Buro Happold and MGAC. Published in June 2026.
The case study organisations are Space Studios, Milton Keynes Theatre, The Lowry, Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum, Oxford Playhouse, Wales Millennium Centre and Chichester Festival Theatre.
Who’s it for?
‘The Path to Net Zero’ is designed primarily to support understanding among cultural organisations, policymakers and funders involved in delivering these essential cultural retrofitting projects.
The Path to Net Zero: Exploring Funding Options for Retrofitting Cultural Buildings
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