Climate activists who slept overnight at the Science Museum in London will approach visitors to the attraction to tell them about its sponsorship deals.
A new tunnel funded by a subsidiary of the Adani Group, a multinational involved in coal mining, is expected to open in 2023.
About 30 members of the UK Student Climate Network (UKSCN) camped out in the lobby to protest on behalf of the “victims” of fossil fuel companies.
No arrests were made.
Image source, UKSCNDemonstrator Izzy Warren, 17, said the group, which includes school pupils, college students and scientists, chose to occupy the museum because the owners ignored their petitions, letters and boycotts.
“We would really like to greet the people who come to the museum this morning so that they are aware of what they are supporting and what they are paying for.
“The Science Museum is clearly taking money from some of the worst authors of the climate crisis.”
The demonstration comes after the Science Museum last week announced a new gallery, called Energy Revolution: The Adani Green Energy Gallery, which is supported by an Adani Group subsidiary.
Image source, Getty ImagesBiologist Dr Alexander Penson, who took part in the sit-in, said it was “scary” that the museum persists in sponsoring fossil fuels and starts a new relationship with Adani.
Activists said they negotiated with museum staff to move from the second floor of the building to the Energy Hall near the main entrance, in order to have access to restrooms throughout the night.
London Science Museum
- The Science Museum is a major museum on Exhibition Road in South Kensington
- Founded in 1857, it is one of the main tourist attractions in the city, attracting 3.3 million visitors every year
- Admission is free, although special exhibits may require a fee
The museum has also faced criticism for partnering with Shell to fund its Our Future Planet exhibit, which is about carbon capture and storage and nature-based solutions to the climate crisis.
The deal with the fossil fuel giant included a gag clause, committing the museum not to say anything that could damage Shell’s reputation.
Image source, Tommy VickerstaffA spokesman for the Metropolitan Police said: “The officers attended and engaged with the demonstrators and museum staff.
“The protesters stated that their intention was to stay in the museum overnight. This was agreed upon by the museum staff.
“No further police action was needed.”
The Science Museum has been contacted for comment.
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