ICOM’s new award celebrates sustainable practices in museums, inviting global submissions to inspire and promote long-term positive change in the museum sector.
The International Council of Museums (ICOM) has announced a call for applications for the inaugural global award recognizing sustainable development practices within the museum community. This award underscores ICOM’s dedication to the UN’s Agenda 2030, aiming to inspire sustainable practices that lead to long term positive changes in the museum sector and beyond.
“Accessible and inclusive, museums foster diversity and sustainability. We welcome diverse submissions from all museum types, addressing various sustainable development goals. I am proud to celebrate a best practice sustainable initiative with our worldwide community,” stated Emma Nardi, ICOM President.
Medea Ekner, ICOM Director General, added, “ICOM advocates for the role and responsibility of museums in shaping sustainable futures for all. In line with ICOM’s Resolution No.1 adopted at the 34th ICOM General Assembly, ‘On sustainability and the implementation of Agenda 2030, Transforming our World,’ the ICOM Award provides a platform for museums to embrace the UN Sustainable Development Goals.”
The award entries will be judged by an international jury based on the five dimensions of Agenda 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals, known as the 5 P’s: People, Planet, Prosperity, Peace, and Partnership. Eligible museums must be ICOM Members in good standing for 2023 and 2024. The award ceremony will take place at the 27th ICOM General Conference in November 2025 in Dubai, gathering the global museum community to set the sector’s direction for the next three years.
Beyond recognizing outstanding efforts, the award serves as a capacity-building initiative, encouraging museums to showcase and demonstrate their contributions to a sustainable future. This initiative promotes learning across the sector, building on good practices, and fostering an environment of shared growth and development.
Why Apply
•Global Recognition: Showcase your institution or initiative on the world stage as a leader in sustainable development.
•Network Building: Connect with like-minded professionals, institutions, and experts globally, fostering collaboration and shared learning.
•Inspire Change: Demonstrate the impact of your efforts and inspire others in the museum sector to embrace sustainable development.
Who Can Apply
Museums that have successfully implemented sustainable development actions and completed their projects are encouraged to apply. Submissions will be judged based on the project’s impact, with a focus on clear results and outcomes. ICOM seeks a diverse range of submissions from different museum types, addressing various sustainable development challenges. Small museums, small projects, and initiatives that have pushed the boundaries of standard museum practice are especially encouraged to apply.
Applications for the ICOM Award are accepted until September 30, 2024. For more information about the application process, visit the ICOM website and follow the ICOM Award social media accounts on Instagram and LinkedIn.
About ICOM
The International Council of Museums is an international organization of museums and museum professionals committed to the research, conservation, continuation, and communication of the world’s natural and cultural heritage. Comprising over 57,000 professionals in 129 countries and territories, ICOM promotes capacity building and advances knowledge, serving as the voice of museum professionals on an international stage.