Museum leaders worldwide are prioritizing environmental sustainability by implementing initiatives such as adjusting temperature standards, transitioning to LED lighting, and adopting green logistics practices. Such efforts can lead to significant cost savings, reduced energy consumption, and minimized environmental impact. While recognizing the challenges, museums are encouraging artists hosting exhibitions to explore sustainability solutions for creative installations that are environmentally conscious.
Faculty experts at the George Washington University are available to offer commentary, insight and analysis on sustainability in museums. If you would like to speak with an expert, please contact GW Media Relations Specialist Tayah Frye at [email protected].
Laura Schiavo is the Deputy Director of Museum Studies for Corcoran School of the Arts & Design at the George Washington University. Her current research looks at the contemporary work of US museums in the field of civic engagement and the historic roots of that commitment, with an article forthcoming in a volume on the radical roots of public history. She has been published in the areas of visual culture, museums and diversity, and museums and identity, as well as contributing book and exhibition reviews to national publications. Professor Schiavo is currently working on an initiative to address the vital issue of the role of Museum Studies programs in the lack of racial, ethnic, and socio-economic diversity in the museum profession.
Schiavo can discuss how current exhibitions at the Corcoran, such as Still in the Fight: The DC Statehood Movement, are working to incorporate more sustainable practices that limit waste into museum installations.
Erin A. Speck is an Assistant Professor of Interior Architecture for Corcoran School of the Arts & Design at the George Washington University. Speck's areas of expertise include AutoCAD, Revit, research methods, lighting, preservation, and building technology. She teaches courses on computer technologies, lighting, construction methods and materials, while going beyond the classroom to expose students to many real-world experiences and resources. She is both LEED-AP and NCIDQ certified, as well as serving on multiple design-related committees. Speck’s current research explores the similarities and differences with the leading green building certifications, LEED, GBI, LFI, BREEAM.
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