Sustainability Award returns in 2024: apply today
4th March 2024
The QEST and Heritage Crafts Sustainability Award is back again in 2024, with applications now open.
QEST is pleased to be partnering with Heritage Crafts to highlight craftspeople in the UK who have gone above and beyond to become measurably more sustainable in their practice.
This Award aimed at those who have made a change to their materials or processes or innovated in another way to measurably reduce their impact on the environment within the last 12 months.
It recognises makers working with traditional craft skills or materials who have taken clear and effective steps to improve their environmental sustainability as well as the long-term viability of their business.
After the success of the Award in 2023 which attracted 66 nominations, in 2024 the Award will be split into two prizes: ‘Material Innovation’ and ‘Improving Processes’.
The Material Innovation prize is aimed at craftspeople who can demonstrate an innovative approach to environmental sustainability, rarely before seen, that can act as inspiration for others to explore new ways of thinking and working.
The recipient of this prize will have pioneered a truly innovative solution, technique, or process that challenges conventional wisdom and inspires others to explore new horizons in sustainable craftsmanship.
The Improving Processes prize is designed for makers who has made substantial and measurable progress in transforming the environmental impact of their craft business through a series of incremental changes and improvements.
The recipient of this prize will have demonstrated a steadfast commitment to sustainability by implementing practical initiatives that reduce waste, conserve resources, and mitigate environmental harm over time.
Each winner will receive £1,000 each.
Apply here today: bit.ly/HCQESTSustainability
Inaugural Award winner Lulu Harrison encouraged makers to put their name forward.
Lulu, a 2023 QEST Johnnie Walker Scholar, was recognised for her sustainable processes in incorporating waste from local fishing industries to create glass pieces.
“Being the first recipient of this award has been a real honour, with the award money going towards future projects which wouldn’t have otherwise been possible,” she said.
Judges for the award in 2024 include renowned craft environmental craft advocate Katie Treggiden and Kerryn Harper-Cuss. Katie is a renowned craft environmental craft advocate, author and founder of podcast Making Design Circular.
Kerryn is an independent editor, brand consultant and QEST ambassador with extensive experience in the interior design sector.
Anyone (including the craftsperson or micro-business themselves), can put their name forward for the QEST and Heritage Crafts Sustainability Award.
The winners will be invited to attend the high-profile Winners’ Reception at the Vicar’s Hall, Windsor Castle, in November 2024 where the result will be announced and the prizes awarded.
Applications close on Friday 24 May.
