What Design Can Do (WDCD) has announced its shortlist for the Redesign Everything Challenge. From 557 entries worldwide, 33 projects will now move on to the final round of the competition. The Challenge, launched in partnership with the IKEA Foundation in January 2024, asked designers and innovators for creative climate solutions to radically redesign the world we live in through a circular and regenerative lens.
As many as 17 countries are represented in this year’s shortlist, including Japan, Turkey, India, Kenya, Brazil, Mexico, the UK and the Netherlands. All applications were reviewed by a Selection Committee of 28 circularity and design experts worldwide, including Taina Campos (industrial designer), S. Vishwanath (Biome Trust), & Coen Persijn (Programme Manager, Stichting DOEN).
“We are thrilled to unveil the remarkable creativity and innovation displayed by the 33 nominees for the Redesign Everything Challenge,” says Richard van der Laken, co-founder and creative director of WDCD. “These projects showcase the power of design to help us radically reimagine a more sustainable future, one that prioritizes both people and the planet.
“It’s remarkable how What Design Can Do serves as a pivotal platform for designers and creative entrepreneurs worldwide. The 33 nominees demonstrated a profound understanding of circularity, responding to local urgencies in ways that are sustainable and regenerative”, said “Ayush Chauhan, Managing Partner & Co-Founder, of Quicksand Design Studio & Unbox Cultural Futures”.
A FOCUS ON LIVABLE CITIES, MOBILISING PEOPLE, AND WORKING WITH NATURE
Some of the most notable nominated projects found value in social design to make cities more livable in the future. Greenfluidics (Mexico) transforms urban spaces into sustainable ecosystems with innovative solar panels that purify air and generate clean energy, to provide urban lungs for cities. Similarly, Breathe Easy (India) highlights the importance of reframing the question of what a city needs.
Another common thread is a focus on education and awareness campaigns to encourage climate action. The Revival (Ghana) integrated awareness campaigns and upcycling initiatives to divert over 1 million garments from landfills and oceans.
