Sustainability and upcycling in design in the spotlight at Transform4Europe's Summer School!

Monday, May 12, 2025 - 11:21

From 11 to 15 August, the Estonian Academy of Arts is organising the Creative Circularity Summer School, as part of the Transform4Europe alliance, with a focus on Sustainability and Upcycling in design.

This year's programme includes two practical courses: ‘Recrafted: A Workshop for Shoe & Bag Upcycling’, about transforming used materials into unique fashion items, and the “Green Transformer Student Challenge”, which encourages innovative and sustainable design solutions.

Undergraduate and master's students at the Portuguese Catholic University can apply for a scholarship to take part in one of the two courses.

The Recrafted: A Workshop for Shoe & Bag Upcycling course takes place online on 8 August and in person from 11 to 15 August in Tallinn, Estonia, and the application deadline is 18 May 2025.

This course offers an opportunity to explore upcycling techniques. By combining artistic craftsmanship with sustainability principles, the summer course encourages innovation in the reuse of materials, while promoting a deeper understanding of ethical fashion practices.

This initiative seeks to inspire creative solutions that bridge the gap between environmental awareness and
contemporary design, demonstrating the transformative potential of discarded resources in shaping a more responsible and forward-looking fashion industry.

To take part in the Green Transformer Student Challenge, students must apply by 18 May. The course will include a face-to-face part from 11 to 15 August in Tallinn, Estonia, and an online part on 22 August.

The course aims to explore practical, low-impact design strategies that support sustainable development and circular thinking.

Through guided tours of leading design studios, participants gain an insight into real-world design processes and methodologies, while being inspired by industry professionals. This immersive experience allows students to co-create innovative solutions that combine functionality and ecological responsibility.

At the conclusion of the project, the best teams will be recognised, with the winning teams receiving cash prizes from a total prize fund of €5000.

The Green Transformer Student Challenge 2025 is closely linked to Recrafted: A Workshop for Shoe & Bag Upcycling, with both initiatives forming an integrated event: while the workshop provides hands-on experience in upcycling techniques, the challenge offers a platform for students to apply these skills in interdisciplinary teams, developing innovative solutions to real-world sustainability challenges.