Why is the London Science Museum Ending Shell Sponsorship Deal?

Big changes are on the horizon for one of London’s most popular attractions, with the Science Museum confirming that it’s ending its sponsorship deal with Shell. When the contract lapses this December, the iconic museum will not be resigning on the dotted line.

Shell shakes up its reputation

Given Shell’s controversial drilling ventures as of late, it’s no real surprise that the museum is reluctant to partner up with the oil giant. The proposed Arctic projects have been particularly controversial, attracting worldwide attention from environmentalists, celebrities and everyday citizens alike. Now, the museum has decided not to renew the sponsorship deal that saw Shell provide significant funding towards the hugely popular climate change exhibition.

“No, the Science Museum Group [formerly the National Museum of Science & Industry] does not have plans to renew its existing sponsorship deal or initiate a new deal or funding agreement with Royal Dutch Shell,” answered museum representatives in response to a freedom of information request.

A collision of cash, controversy, culture and climate change

From the very beginning, the Science Museum came under fire from critics for its willingness to accept sponsorship from a fossil fuel company. Further investigation revealed that Shell had attempted to influence the programme, an accusation that both current and former directors were quick to deny.

Chris Garrard, an active member of campaign group BP or not BP? was relieved to hear the museum would be ending its partnership with Shell, saying, “It’s no secret that Shell relentlessly lobbies against measures to tackle climate change – but the Science Museum went ahead with this ill-advised deal nonetheless. This is a step in the right direction, but the museum needs to stop legitimising the fossil fuel industry completely by ditching its deal with BP too.”

While the Science Museum has put an end to the current deal, it’s not ruling out the chances of any future arrangements.

“For the avoidance of doubt, we have a long-term relationship with Shell, with whom we remain in open dialogue. We may or may not enter into partnership agreements with Shell in the future,” says Ian Blatchford, the museum’s director.

While Shell does have its fair share of criticism, it’s also done great things for the oil and gas industry. ‘The World’s Largest Gas to Liquids Facility Runs on LIMS’ explores its role in the establishment of Pearl GTL, the largest gas to liquids facility on the planet.

Image via Flickr Creative Commons. Credits: Ewan Munro