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Cape Farewell, cultural producers Shrinking Space, and Hammerhead VR have teamed up with the Environmental Research Group at King’s College London, to create an immersive Virtual Reality experience for Utopia, at Somerset House in October 2016.

This experience will allow visitors to virtually interact with the physical environment of The Strand – the busy area surrounding Somerset House. Through the implementation of behavioural, scientific and technological changes, individuals will transform and de-carbonise their city into a greener, more peaceful neighbourhood, that no longer poses a threat to health nor contributes to climate change.

Across the world, scientists, environmentalists and entrepreneurs are taking up the challenge of pollution and climate change – carbon neutral urban environments are easily achievable – the Energy Renaissance project places individuals at the centre of London’s evolution, where their actions form vital steps towards this feasible, safer and healthier post-carbon urban future.

The project draws on gaming, immersive theatre, and stunning graphics to create a visceral experience, not one set in a fictional future but one that is inspired and informed by present day reality.

Energy Renaissance is part of Utopia 2016: A Year of Imagination and Possibility. Utopia 2016 is a collaboration between three neighbours: Somerset House, King’s College London and The Courtauld Institute of Art, in partnership with The British Library, the AHRC, and the British Council. The London School of Economics will also engage many of the 300 plus creative organisations, artists and makers resident at Somerset House.