We are producing various forms of wastes and pollutants in our daily activities, including air, water, soil, light, noise and more. As the population grew and industrialisation occurred rapidly in the past century, we are consuming natural resources at an unprecedented rate. How can Art & Design help us to relieve these issues?

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Greenhouse gases cause global warming and catastrophic weather events. Most vehicles on road release carbon dioxide, which is a major greenhouse gas source. Some countries use hydraulic fracturing to extract natural gases and oil, which releases methane (a very strong greenhouse gas), consuming high volumes of water, contaminating underground water and inducing other risks. An existing solution is to use renewable energy wherever appropriate, hence making Product Design essential. For example, some car manufacturers introduce electric cars to reduce emissions. 

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Another example is green building. Environmental impacts are considered at every stage, such as designing, constructing, operating, maintaining, demolishing and more. One common solution of sustainable energy is solar power. Green buildings require designers, architects and other parties to work closely.

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Our clothing is major source of soil pollution, especially for brands which use the “fast fashion” approach. A new series is launched every season, but clothes from the previous season will most likely end up in a landfill. Dyes and chemicals may cause water pollution because some factories release these pollutants into the ocean directly. The manufacturing process may release toxic fumes as well. Eco-friendly design methods and practices are invented to achieve sustainable fashion, such as recycling cotton and polyester fabrics. However, these techniques are not widely applied because of the costs associated.

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It is evident that Art & Design changes the way we live. Technology is advancing and introduces new techniques and materials. Companies should implement eco-friendly practices to fulfil their social responsibilities. Artists, designers, engineers, architects and other parties are working hard on eco-friendly and energy-efficient products. As artists we can create works which alert the public that time is limited and everyone is responsible. As an individual, we can start now with our daily activities. For example, reduce the consumption of plastic bottles or bags, purchase products with minimal packaging and install LEDs at home instead of traditional light bulbs. As an Art & Design studio, Konrede always advises our clients to reduce wastes whenever possible, especially on paper and material consumptions. Every individual’s effort counts, you can make a change starting from today.