In the heart of Birmingham in Edgbaston, Midlands Arts Centre (MAC) breathes sustainability into the arts for its local community.
MAC continues its long-term commitment to sustainability, blending its artistic mission with a deep sense of responsibility toward the planet. For MAC, sustainability is not just an extra, it’s at the core of what they do.
With a clear focus on reducing its environmental footprint, MAC recognises that, as a cultural institution, it has both a duty and an opportunity to lead by example.
We spoke to Green Champions lead, Lizzie Moran, to find out more.
Why does Sustainability Matter to MAC?
There are a lot of different reasons why MAC sees sustainability as essential, but most of all, it sees it as “the right thing to be worrying about”. The world is changing, and the expectations from audiences are evolving. A 2023 Indigo survey highlights that audiences expect cultural institutions to act green and incorporate sustainable practices into their operations. For MAC, this has meant being proactive rather than reactive, taking responsibility for the world around us and ensuring we contribute positively to a sustainable future.
For MAC, the drive towards sustainability goes beyond doing the right thing; it’s also about engaging and educating. The centre has had a staff Green Champions group since 2012, which helps to communicate and promote climate and sustainability issues in creative ways. Whether through exhibitions, workshops, or dedicated environmental initiatives, MAC is firmly committed to fostering a deeper understanding of the urgent issues surrounding climate change.
What makes MAC stand out?
What truly sets MAC apart is its inclusivity. It’s not just an arts centre, it’s an “open space for everyone”. Whether you’re attending a show in our theatre, taking part in a course, visiting a gallery, or simply enjoying a cup of tea, MAC welcomes .
MAC’s vision is to be a space where artistic expression and environmental responsibility go hand in hand. It’s about making space for community conversations about sustainability.
What do MAC’s team love about Birmingham?
The city’s unassuming, self-effacing character inspires the team at MAC. In Birmingham, there’s no need for showy displays, people get on with the things that need to be done. And that’s exactly the ethos MAC embodies in its sustainability work. From organising environmentally-focused festivals to pop-up stalls or litter picks, MAC’s initiatives are driven by a spirit of community engagement.
In addition to these local initiatives, MAC plays an active role in planning layouts for sustainable urban development and sharing messages about environmental practice through its programme. From the staff Green Champions group to partnerships that help spotlight climate change issues, MAC is involved in every step of the journey toward a greener future.
The passion that the team at MAC hold for its community and environment is clear to see, making it a leader in creating a sustainable cultural future. From its commitment to greener practices to its open-door ethos, MAC shows how arts institutions can play a pivotal role in advancing environmental consciousness.
If you would like to visit MAC, you can find it in Cannon Hill Park, Edgbaston. Follow MAC’s journey and keep up to date with what’s on at https://macbirmingham.co.uk/.