Innovative project by Longford and Mayo County Councils explores waste reduction in arts

Researcher to document how artists and festival organisers can reduce waste

Press Release: Friday, 25 July 2025 

Longford and Mayo County Councils have launched an innovative joint research project designed to research and assess how artists and creatives can reduce waste through repair, reuse, and upcycling of art materials.

The Repaired Arts Circular Economy (R.A.C.E) is designed to research and assess how artists and creatives can reduce waste through repair, reuse, and upcycling of art materials in Counties Longford and Mayo.

County Longford and County Mayo Arts Offices are currently developing this research project to address how best to support artists and creatives to recycle / upcycle art materials in their local environment.

The innovative project is being led by Longford and Mayo Arts Officers and is supported by both Council’s Climate Change Officers. The project is funded through the Environmental Protection Agency’s Circular Economy Programme.

The project aims to address the need for artists to be more sustainable and thoughtful in how materials are used in everyday life. The R.A.C.E project is currently recruiting a researcher to carry out this valuable work. This 12-month research contract will document and assess how artists and festival organisers can reduce waste through repair, reuse, and upcycling of art materials.

Artists produce exhibitions, crafts, parades, and festivals – all of which use materials and generate waste. This project recognises the need to grow awareness of the circular economy and support circular practices among those generating art.

In each county, a significant amount of money every year is spent on materials across a range of different art making disciplines. When events and exhibitions are over, particularly festivals, often a significant amount of art materials end up as land fill or deteriorate due to poor storage conditions.

Chief Executive of Longford County Council, Paddy Mahon said, “The Repaired Arts Circular Economy project not only advances our climate action goals but also empowers our artists and creatives to lead the way in building a more sustainable future. Their creativity, energy, and commitment to rethinking waste shows that real change starts in our own communities. Longford County Council is proud to support initiatives that inspire environmental responsibility and innovation at every level.”

Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Garry Murtagh said, “This innovative research project is a powerful example of how our artists and creatives can help drive meaningful climate solutions. By extending the life of everyday items, we reduce waste, lower emissions, and foster a culture of sustainability within our community. It’s a practical step forward in our commitment to a circular economy and a greener future for all.”

For further information on the researcher role contact Longford Arts Office or email artsoffice@longfordcoco.ie