The industrial revolution and our planet with Powerhouse

Join Powerhouse volunteers as we explore how human activity has transformed the environment—from early innovations to the climate challenges we face today.

The industrial revolution reshaped society but also triggered large-scale environmental change. This talk examines how coal-powered factories, steam engines and mass production drove pollution, deforestation and rising carbon emissions—laying the foundation for today’s climate crisis. 

Highlighting objects from the Powerhouse collection, we’ll trace the rapid rise of fossil fuel dependence and the first warnings about greenhouse gases. Discover how industrial advancements altered the planet and why their effects still shape our world. 

With Earth Hour on 22 March, this session encourages reflection on the long-term impacts of industrialisation and the power of collective action. Join us to explore how history connects to climate change—and what we can do to build a more sustainable future.