Science centres get green funding

Feb 13 2013

Scotland's four science centres are to share £40,000 of government funding to showcase green technologies as part of the Year of Natural Scotland.

Dundee Science Centre will host community and school events celebrating sustainable living and new technologies while Glasgow Science Centre will hold workshops and expert sessions at a festival of sustainable science.

Our Dynamic Earth in Edinburgh will hold environment workshops and exhibitions, and Aberdeen's Satrosphere Science Centre is holding a Green Energy Discovery Weekend.

Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop said: "This funding will allow our four science centres to inspire people to experience and participate in our natural heritage as well as engaging with our sustainable future.

"These events and exhibitions will appeal to visitors at home and abroad, enhancing the celebration of the Year of Natural Scotland and helping to build momentum towards Homecoming Scotland 2014."

The national programme is being co-ordinated by Dundee Science Centre. Linda Leuchars, head of science learning and public engagement, said: "We are delighted to bring together the four Scottish science centres to deliver a joint, nationwide programme of activities that celebrates the Year of Natural Scotland.

"Together, we aim to inspire the citizens and visitors of Scotland to experience and participate in Scotland's national heritage, and engage with a sustainable future for Scotland.

"At Dundee Science Centre, we will give specific focus to the theme of Green Communities - working with our partners to deliver meet-the-expert events for school and public visitors to engage in a range of ideas relating to low carbon and sustainable living, from domestic energy usage to new technologies."

The Year of Natural Scotland 2013 is the last of the Scottish Government's four "focus years", designed to highlight Scotland's natural assets, wildlife and beauty spots, and encourage responsible tourism.