Mystic Seaport Museum Announces Low Carbon Transformation and Climate Action Initiative
Mystic, Conn. (July 28, 2023) – Mystic Seaport Museum is excited to announce its groundbreaking low carbon transformation, coinciding with the momentous occasion of its 100th anniversary. The event will take place on Saturday, July 29, 2023, from 1:00 to 2:00 PM at the SABINO Dock. SABINO is the ideal backdrop to announce the Museum’s initiative given the recent engine conversion resulting in a 95% reduction of the vessel’s carbon footprint.
The following state and local officials will be attending and speaking at this event: Richard Blumenthal, United States Senator; Mark Boughton, Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services; Hank Webster, Deputy Commissioner of Energy, Heather Somers, State Senator; and Aundre Bumgardner, State Representative.
“Mystic Seaport Museum was recently named one of America’s 25 most beautiful landmarks. It’s wonderful that they’re doing their part to preserve this natural beauty while reducing carbon emissions to help preserve our planet. As the nation’s leading maritime museum, the steps they are taking to achieve a low carbon transformation will enable continued public education regarding the nautical history of Connecticut, and America, for generations to come.” stated Commissioner Mark Boughton, who in addition to being Commissioner of the state Department of Revenue Services, is Gov. Lamont’s point person for infrastructure projects in Connecticut.
As a leader in maritime heritage and education, the Museum is committed to addressing the challenges our oceans face due to climate change. Our low carbon transformation represents a significant step forward in our ongoing efforts to support resilience planning, mitigate sea level rise, and take decisive climate action.
“We are excited to share our progress and vision for a sustainable future with the community,” said Peter Armstrong, President of Mystic Seaport Museum. “This low carbon transformation is a testament to our commitment to environmental stewardship and dedication to preserving our maritime heritage for generations to come.”
A recent Forbes article noted, “Now is the time for climate action—to keep temperatures in check and ensure the long-term growth of the maritime industry,” after shipping giant Maersk announced its intent to hit its net-zero goals by 2040.
The Museum’s low carbon transformation encompasses a wide range of initiatives, including the implementation of renewable energy sources, energy-efficient infrastructure upgrades, and the adoption of sustainable practices throughout the Museum’s operations. These efforts are a continuation of the great work already done, including the use of geo-thermal heating and cooling in the Thompson Exhibition Building and the installation of solar panels on the Collections Research Center roof.
By embracing these measures, we aim to significantly reduce our carbon footprint and inspire others to take similar actions.
Members of the community, maritime enthusiasts, environmental advocates, and members of the media are welcome to join us on July 29th as we celebrate this momentous occasion. This event is included with the Museum’s general admission and free for Members.
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Media Contact
Sophia Matsas
Director of Marketing & Communications
Mystic Seaport Museum
860.572.5317 (o)
sophia.matsas@mysticseaport.org
About Mystic Seaport Museum
Mystic Seaport Museum is the nation’s leading maritime Museum. Founded in 1929 to gather and preserve the rapidly disappearing artifacts of America’s seafaring past, the Museum has grown to become a national center for research and education with the mission to “inspire an enduring connection to the American maritime experience.” The Museum’s grounds cover 19 acres on the Mystic River in Mystic, CT, and include a recreated New England coastal village, a working shipyard, formal exhibit halls, and state-of-the-art artifact storage facilities. The Museum is home to more than 500 historic watercraft, including four National Historic Landmark vessels, most notably the 1841 whaleship Charles W. Morgan. For more information, please visit mysticseaport.org and follow the Museum on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram.
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