vision

Vision

Our vision is for a South Georgia where native wildlife is protected and thriving, and cultural history is safeguarded, interpreted and shared.

mission

Mission

South Georgia, a sub-Antarctic island, is a natural paradise rich in cultural heritage. Our mission is to protect South Georgia’s environment and preserve its history. We collaborate with all who wish to safeguard the island’s natural and cultural heritage for future generations, aiming to rectify past environmental damage.

introduction

Achievements to Date

Since 2005, the South Georgia Heritage Trust (SGHT) has transformed South Georgia’s ecosystem. Through the Habitat Restoration project and collaboration with the Friends of South Georgia Island, over £10 million was raised to eradicate invasive species, removing rats and mice. The Trust has also revitalised the South Georgia Museum, managing it on behalf of the Government of South Georgia & the South Sandwich Islands (GSGSSI) since July 2006 and engaging the public through its collections, displays, and outreach programmes.

overview

Strategy Overview

The SGHT five-year strategy has two main strands:

Wildlife

Support research and conservation efforts to enhance knowledge of South Georgia’s wildlife and protect native species. Priorities will include:

  • creation of a multi-year wildlife monitoring programme with organizations like British Antarctic Survey (BAS)
  • helping to fund BAS research on whale abundance, movement, and feeding habits.
  • collaborative efforts to protect South Georgia albatrosses
  • supporting the GSGSSI biosecurity dog team in its work to prevent invasive species from reaching South Georgia.

Heritage and Human Impact

Whaling Station Initiative (WSI): Projects related to former whaling stations, including:

  • Saving Shackleton Heritage at Stromness (SSH)
  • Whale Memorial installation at Grytviken (WM)
  • Major Environmental Cleanup (EC)
  • Whalers’ Memory Bank (WMB)
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Milestones

  • South Georgia Museum: Showcase environmental recovery and ongoing conservation efforts through the new Whale Gallery (complete by March 2025) and a new Community Gallery (complete by end of 2027).
  • Wildlife Support: Partner with BAS, GSGSSI, and others to implement a long-term wildlife monitoring programme and support the GSGSSI biosecurity dog programme.
  • Saving Shackleton Heritage at Stromness (SSH): Stabilise the Stromness Manager’s Villa by March 2026.
  • Whale Memorial Installation at Grytviken (WM): Install the Key Table artwork by December 2026.
  • Whalers Memory Bank (WMB): Create a living digital time-capsule by April 2025 for veterans of the whaling industry and their families to share their stories.