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Since the baseline year of 2019/20, Heritage Services carbon footprint has reduced from 2,912 tCO2e to 2,437 tCO2e in the latest reporting year of 2023/24. Scope 1 & 2 emissions have dropped significantly due to heat pump installation in 2022, and grid decarbonisation. Scope 3 emissions remain high and are largely estimated using spend-based data. Visitor travel emissions, though not formally included within our carbon boundary yet, are continuously monitored and will be included when the data and appointment methodology is more reliable. 

In 2024/25 the service created a 3-year environmental action plan which aims to accelerate progress towards becoming net zero, whilst also preserving the ancient monuments, listed buildings and world-renowned collections in our care and continuing to deliver a financial return to the Council. The plan is structured around three pillars: People, Place and Heritage.

Place:

• Reduce Scope 1 & 2 emissions by 52%
• Achieve zero waste to landfill and improve visitor led recycling
• Improve Scope 3 emissions data accuracy 

People:

• 100% of FTE staff to be certified Carbon Literate
• Engage with suppliers to set their own net zero targets
• Improve sustainability communications with visitors

Heritage: 

• Lead by example in climate adaptation
• Share best practices and collaborate with sector peers
• Address climate-related risks to historic assets

• Supplier Engagement: we are engaged with 35 of our top suppliers, providing support through online webinars, workshops, and guidance packs to aid their own carbon footprinting and reduction.
• Climate Risk Planning: we have undertaken a climate risk assessment of the Roman Baths identifying 17 risks from the 4 main hazards to the area as identified by the Met Office – Heavy Rainfall & Flooding, Overheating, Drought and Storms. An adaptation plan is now underway to ensure future resilience.
• Sustainable Sourcing: our catering supplier Searcys have doubled down on their local supplier base, prioritising provenance and positive environmental impact. Key ingredient suppliers are actively farming regeneratively.
• Sustainable Tourism: we co-hosted a sustainable tourism workshop with Visit West and Buro Happold. Over 60 cross-sector attendees explored how tourism can support heritage, climate action, and community well-being—resulting in clear next steps focused on data, partnerships, and authenticity.
• Reduced Waste: our operations are now zero waste to landfill, and we have taken steps to improve visitor led recycling on site.
• Industry Recognition: the Victoria Art Gallery is now an active member of the Gallery Climate Coalition, demonstrating commitment to environmental sustainability within the visual arts sector. 

Progress against the 3-year action plan is overseen by the Heritage Services Senior Leadership Team and Advisory Board, with alignment to council-wide strategies. Actions, and climate-related risks, are tracked through KPIs and reviewed quarterly. More details on the Heritage Services action plan, KPIs and emission reduction goals can be found in our full action plan due to be published before the end of the year.