This paper argues that a first step in finding a sustainable solution for the pressing global issue of ‘waste’, is to consider waste a value attribution rather than a material condition. Doing so means a shift in focus from finding more efficient ways to ‘clean up the mess’ to changing the way in which …

This paper will focus on the role of artists and designers as agents of change in sustainability innovation. We will analyse the characteristics of this role on the basis of a review of literature that discusses various concepts, methodologies and strategies applied by artists and designers in innovation …

While the notion of autarky is often contested in terms of feasibility and desirability, art and design projects that deal with autarky seem to moreover suggest positive socio-cultural and ecological effects of autarkic living. A social network model of autarky is introduced to unify these seemingly …

This working paper is the introduction and exploration of the theme 'Value of waste' for the Energize festival 2015. What is the value of waste? Based on ideas concerning the lifecycle of materials it depends on where you are in this cycle: have you consumed material, then what remains is usually waste …