A computer interface that works on vibration rather than electrical circuit board; an emergency programme that tackles the loss of coral reefs from ocean acidification; a camping equipment rental system to reduce festival waste; and a pot that cooks without gas or electricity are among the 34 SustainRCA Awards finalist projects selected yesterday during Show RCA 2014.
The 34 finalist projects, competing for £5,000 bursaries to support ongoing work and development, will feature in the SustainRCA Show and Awards – SustainRCA’s visionary showcase of exceptional sustainability-themed work during the London Design Festival in September.
Finalists’ work this year tackles issues including: the circular economy and electronics waste; plight of coral reefs and bees; air pollution; dealing with nuclear disaster; animal welfare and meat processing; preserving heritage and craft skills through new industries; the use of synthetic biology technologies for food production; transparency in supply chains; crowd-funding for community energy and much more.
Many of the SustainRCA Show finalists have been supported, inspired and mentored by SustainRCA through its dedicated programme of tutorials, talks, workshops, specialist resources and access to a professional sustainability network.
Head of SustainRCA Clare Brass said, ‘The diversity, depth and quantity of graduate work this year is unprecedented. There’s growing awareness that sustainability – environmental and social equality and justice – really underpins the fabric of our future. The SustainRCA team has worked hard throughout the academic year to really engage with students across the College through our dedicated tutorials, talks and research programme.’
Almost 100 graduating students from across 16 programmes and five schools at the Royal College of Art applied to the annual SustainRCA Show and Awards.
Winners this year will be chosen by a judging panel including critic and writer John Thackara; former BIMA chief executive Justin Cooke; former head of innovation at Philips Josephine Green; Griffith University sustainability expert Malcolm McIntosh; and RCA Head of Design Products Sharon Baurley on 17 September. The winners across four categories: Moving Minds, Visionary Process, Inspired Product and Solutions for Society will be announced at a private view, and will each receive a bursary of £5,000 to support their ongoing work in sustainability.
