In 2015, the United Nations launched 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—a global call to action for all countries, rich and poor, to work together for a better future.

Wales is leading the way through the Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015, which puts sustainable development at the heart of decision-making. The Act ensures that public bodies in Wales consider the long-term impact of their actions and work together to improve the social, economic, environmental, and cultural well-being of current and future generations.

Both the SDGs and Wales’ Future Generations Act reflect a shared vision: building a fairer, healthier, and more sustainable world for everyone—today and tomorrow.

In line with Welsh government, Wales Millennium Centre targets several of the UN SDGs for a more resilient, prosperous, healthier and equal Wales of cohesive communities and culture:

• 4. Quality Education
• 8. Decent Work and Economic Growth
• 12. Responsible Consumption and Production
• 13. Climate Action

• We have installed 720 solar panels on our roof saving more than 50 tonnes of carbon a year. Our theatre has the UK’s first ‘solar stage’. Our annual generation of solar power will be more than enough to power our stage activities (including the heating and cooling of the auditorium) for each year, over the next 25 years and beyond.
• We have replaced over 82% of older, inefficient lighting with LED across the site, with the commitment to a 100% replacement by 2030.
• We have partnered with other large organisations to ensure our energy is procured at the most competitive rates and supports sustainability. 
• We are one of the five anchor clients that helped make the Heat District Network in Wales project a reality. This will provide hot water from waste heat generated at the local Viridor ERF facility and will enable us to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. 
• We embrace principles of the circular economy as part of approach to projects, such as reusing 70% of our furniture during our office refurbishment.

• We constantly endeavour to increase the amount we recycle while ensuring zero waste is sent to landfill. Any general waste is sent to the Viridor plant which supports the District Heat Network and generates energy back to Wales Millennium Centre.
• We require all new contractors to have sustainability credentials as part of our procurement process.
• We decrease the environmental impact of our food and beverage offerings, minimising packaging, particularly single-use plastics. On our bars, we only offer reusable hard plastic cups that are fully recyclable.
• We use local food suppliers.
• 98% of our ticket sales are now digital, reducing the need for physical tickets and conserving natural resources.
• We provide staff training and an introduction to our sustainability goals during staff induction.
• We have pledged to the Heathy Travel Charter Wales which is aligned to Welsh government priorities and promotes sustainable modes of transportation.
• We are committed to increasing the number of guests to travel by sustainable means when visiting Wales Millennium Centre
• As part of our ongoing Sustainability initiatives, we have proudly welcomed our first colony of bees. Pollinators play a pivotal role in the environment but are sadly in decline. We are committed to providing a generational home for the arts in Wales by fostering a rich culture and ensuring a robust environment.

• We are collaborating with producers to champion the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the Well-being Future Generations Act of Wales when welcoming shows to Wales Millennium Centre.
• For our own productions and exhibitions, we reuse our sets and support recycling to support the circular economy and avoid disposal.
• Our co-production of NYE alongside the National Theatre was to the Theatre Green Book standard. 
• Bocs is a dedicated space for immersive experiences and extended reality (XR) hosting experiences such as ‘Invisible Oceans’ which highlights environmental issues to educate the public and inspire change.   

• During staff induction, all new members are introduced to our sustainability policies and initiatives, fostering the environmental care and respect that are hallmarks of our organisation.
• Regular training is provided to staff, with support from the Wales Millennium Centre waste management contractor through workshops and employee education sessions.
• As part of a workplace initiative, staff members volunteer their time with local food banks to help alleviate hunger in our local communities.
• We organise regular litter picks around Cardiff Bay, inviting local businesses to join us in taking pride in our shared environment. Together, we’re creating a cleaner, greener community and inspiring positive change across the bay.

• Queen's Award for Sustainable Development 2015.
• 2023 IWFM Impact Awards for Positive Climate Action.
• DEC Certificate A Rating, 2024.
• ISO 14001 Accreditation Awarded 2025