We’ve been thinking a lot about waste. After two years when strained systems were put under even more pressure by discarded pandemic PPE, we are clearly reaching a critical juncture. For many designers, the issue is uncomfortable; there is obvious conflict between the drive to create and the need to stem the excesses of consumerism. In this issue we look at two very different approaches to this thorny dilemma.
Heartbreaker takes a craft-like, slow design approach, arguing for thoughtful design that rejects inbuilt redundancy. Basically, if we make something beautiful enough, it will continue to be cared for and appreciated, so helping to stem the tide of thoughtless, throwaway purchases.
Our other story, Find, looks to waste as a raw material, overcoming taboos about toxic or visceral sources and instead using every scrap of resource available to us.
This story also looks at the politicisation of waste disposal, in particular neo-colonial waste streams, and shines a light on the dubious practices of greenwashing. This is another area where designers can help, creating clearer and more readily understandable information sources on supply chains for consumers.
Also, in this issue…
For AW 2023/24 forecasts, geographic supplements, in-depth seasonal CMF forecast, Design Impressions, editorial images and more, become a Colour Hive member today.
