Sustainable Change at People’s History Museum
- Posted By The Growth Company
Located in Spinningfields, Manchester, the People’s History Museum (PHM) is renowned as the national museum of democracy, dedicated to preserving the stories of those who have fought for equality and social justice. Beyond its historical mission, PHM is increasingly recognised for its leadership in sustainability, showing how cultural institutions can drive positive environmental change and inspire businesses to do the same.
PHM is home to unique collections that document climate activism, from historic protest banners to contemporary campaigns led by young activists. This work highlights the power of collective action and underlines the importance of sustainability as a long-term business and societal priority.
Thousands of young people engage with PHM’s sustainability-focused learning programmes each year. These initiatives develop leadership skills and confidence in advocating for sustainable change, which are critical attributes that resonate with employers seeking to build resilient, future-ready workforces.
Through international collaborations and guest blogs, PHM brings global sustainability narratives to Manchester, offering insights that challenge businesses to think more creatively and inclusively about climate action. These thought leadership initiatives provide lessons in innovation, collaboration and social impact, all of which are core pillars for Bee Net Zero’s ambitions.
PHM champions sustainable enterprises such as The Hide Ranger, which creates premium leather goods from reclaimed materials. By spotlighting these businesses in their operations and gift shop, PHM actively promotes a circular economy and responsible sourcing practices, providing a model that aligns with Bee Net Zero’s focus on local and low-carbon supply chains.
PHM recognises that operational sustainability is a journey. The museum has implemented measures to reduce energy consumption, minimise waste and embed environmental responsibility in every aspect of its work. These practical actions underscore the role of every organisation, regardless of size or sector, in achieving net zero targets.
The Open Kitchen Cafe at People’s History Museum has a strong focus on offering great value to museum visitors, including families, while still ensuring that all of our products are sustainable and ethical. Open Kitchen's ethos is all around reducing food waste, using locally and ethically sourced ingredients and reducing the environmental impact of food. The cafe offers organic Fairtrade coffees and teas, ethically sourced soft drinks, vegan and gluten free cakes, and a range of sandwiches and salad bowls.
Social Impact and Purpose: PHM’s sustainability efforts demonstrate how embedding environmental responsibility into an organisation’s mission can build brand trust and attract purpose-driven stakeholders.
Collaboration for Change: Through partnerships and shared learning, PHM highlights the power of collective action, an approach that aligns with Bee Net Zero’s collaborative model for reaching net zero by 2038.
Inspiring Innovation: The museum’s programmes and partnerships show how sustainability can be a catalyst for innovation, inspiring new ways of thinking that benefit businesses across Greater Manchester.
PHM’s work exemplifies how sustainability can be woven into an organisation’s ethos, influencing both internal practices and external partnerships. Its role as a cultural leader translates into valuable lessons for businesses: sustainability is not an add-on, it is a mindset and a shared journey.
To explore how your organisation can learn from and collaborate with PHM in driving Manchester’s net zero future, visit https://www.phm.org.uk.