The National Trust is to use augmented reality headsets to show visitors how climate change will affect their properties and grounds in the next 30 years. Six historic National Trust houses will have state-of-the-art augmented reality installations showing Great Britain in 2050. After walking inside the six-metre long mirrored boxes, visitors will be confronted by the sight of a famous property that has fallen into disrepair in the midst of a heavily polluted environment. The shocking scenes are being used to spur people on into leading a more sustainable life. The 8ft tall mirrored structures will be installed in Hardwick Hall in Derbyshire, Clumber Park in Nottinghamshire, Dunham Massey in Greater Manchester, Killerton House in Devon, Trelissick House in Cornwall and Montacute House in Somerset. Keith Jones, climate change advisor, National Trust, said that climate change is the "biggest threat" the National Trust faces. He added: "Climate change is not some time in the future. It's happening here and now, affecting the special places we care for. "We've seen overheating at some National Trust places in the South East, pests and diseases harming ash trees, and landslides and flooding at many sites. "It's easy to feel helpless in the face of climate change, but by taking small steps, such as installing a smart meter, we can make a meaningful difference together.
The National Trust, the UK heritage and conservation charity, is to use augmented reality headsets to demonstrate to visitors the impact of climate change on its properties over the next 30 years. Keith Jones, climate change advisor for the organisation, said that climate change was the “biggest threat” facing the charity. The Trust has pledged to reduce its energy use by 15% by 2009, compared to a 2021 baseline, and aims to generate 50% of its energy from renewables.