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The Need for Sustainable Practices
The Repaired Arts Circular Economy (R.A.C.E) project is an innovative initiative that aims to reduce waste and promote sustainability in the art world. The project is a joint effort between Longford and Mayo County Councils, with the goal of supporting artists and creatives in their local environment to adopt more circular practices. By doing so, the project seeks to address the growing concern of waste generation in the art world.
Artists produce a wide range of creative works, including exhibitions, crafts, parades, and festivals, which all require materials and generate waste. The project recognizes that this waste can have a significant impact on the environment, not only in terms of the resources used but also in terms of the disposal of these materials.
The Benefits of Repair, Reuse, and Upcycling
The R.A.C.E project focuses on three key strategies for reducing waste: repair, reuse, and upcycling. These strategies not only help to reduce waste but also promote creativity, innovation, and sustainability.
- Repair: This involves fixing and restoring damaged or worn-out materials, reducing the need for new materials and minimizing waste.
- Reuse: This involves using materials in new and creative ways, reducing the need for new materials and minimizing waste.
- Upcycling: This involves transforming old or discarded materials into new and valuable products, reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
These strategies not only help to reduce waste but also promote creativity, innovation, and sustainability. By adopting these practices, artists and creatives can make a positive impact on the environment and contribute to a more circular economy.
The Research Project
The R.A.C.E project is currently recruiting a researcher to carry out this valuable work. The 12-month research contract will document and assess how artists and festival organizers can reduce waste through repair, reuse, and upcycling of art materials.
- Documenting best practices: The researcher will document successful examples of repair, reuse, and upcycling in the art world.
- Assessing the impact: The researcher will assess the impact of these strategies on reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
- Developing guidelines: The researcher will develop guidelines and recommendations for artists and creatives to adopt more circular practices.
The researcher will work closely with the project team and artists and creatives to ensure that the research is accurate, comprehensive, and relevant to the needs of the community.
Support from County Councils
The R.A.C.E project is supported by both County Longford and County Mayo Arts Offices, as well as the Council’s Climate Change Officers. The project is funded through the Environmental Protection Agency’s Circular Economy Programme.
The support from the County Councils is crucial in ensuring the success of the project. The County Councils will provide guidance, resources, and expertise to the project team, ensuring that the research is of high quality and relevance to the needs of the community.
Quote from the Chief Executive
Chief Executive of Longford County Council, Paddy Mahon, said, “The Repaired Arts Circular Economy project not only advances our climate action goals but also empowers our artists and creatives to lead the way in building a more sustainable future. “Their creativity, energy, and commitment to rethinking waste shows that real change starts in our own communities. Longford County Council is proud to support initiatives that inspire environmental responsibility and innovation at every level.”
Contact Information
For further information on the researcher role, contact Longford Arts Office or email artsoffice@longfordcoco.ie. The project team is committed to ensuring that the research is of high quality and relevant to the needs of the community.
The R.A.C.E project is an innovative initiative that aims to reduce waste and promote sustainability in the art world.