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The Natural History Museum in London has announced the opening of its first new permanent gallery since 2016, with Fixing Our Broken Planet set to make its public debut in April
Tom Anstey | Planet Attractions | 11 Feb 2025
The gallery and a new programme of events and activities will explore the biggest challenges facing our planet Credit: NHM
London’s Natural History Museum has announced the opening of a new permanent gallery - the first to open at the iconic institution since 2016.
Opening to the public on April 3rd, ‘Fixing Our Broken Planet’ will delve into the most pressing environmental challenges facing the world today, offering a hopeful and actionable approach to preserving the planet’s future.
The gallery will feature groundbreaking research from the museum’s leading scientists, alongside insights from environmental advocates and young changemakers. Inside, visitors will explore over 250 specimens, including a Sumatran rhinoceros, parasitic worms, and whale earwax, with each exhibit highlighting the delicate balance between human health and the wellbeing of the planet.
Fixing Our Broken Planet will also focus on practical solutions, says the museum, with the exhibition showcasing how various forms of nature-based science - such as the use of fungi in agriculture and bacteria in mining - are already addressing environmental issues.
“Fixing Our Broken Planet places this research at the heart of the Museum, offering practical, evidence-based choices for fighting the planetary emergency,” said museum director, Dr Doug Gurr. “It’s about showing that everyone has the power to make a difference.”
The gallery is also the first milestone in the Museum’s NHM150 plan, a transformation of its South Kensington site ahead of its 150th anniversary in 2031. Renovations to the space have preserved its historic Victorian features while incorporating sustainable materials and methods.
Supporting the exhibition is the Fixing Our Broken Planet programme, which includes the return of Generation Hope - a free youth climate initiative. Running from April 29th to May 3rd, this event will offer workshops, panels, and talks created in collaboration with young climate leaders from around the world. The programme aims to inspire young people to become confident advocates for the planet and take actionable steps toward environmental change.
This new gallery and programme are backed by major funding from the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) and Wellcome, with additional support from organisations such as GSK and Ørsted. The Department for Culture, Media and Sport's Public Bodies Infrastructure Fund (PBIF) also awarded the museum with significant funding to rebuild the gallery whilst retaining its heritage and charm.
“To create effective lasting change for the planet we must inspire all generations,” said Britain’s arts minister, Sir Chris Bryant.
“This new free permanent gallery, partly funded by DCMS, will showcase research from the brilliant scientists at the Natural History Museum, helping to educate, challenge and entertain the public on the natural world while demonstrating how we can all make a difference.”
The gallery will be free to visit from its opening in April, ensuring that everyone has access to the museum's vital environmental message.
Museums and galleries
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