For the second year, participating networks have worked to implement the SHIFT Culture eco-guidelines for cultural networks that were developed during the original SHIFT project.
Each network has implemented the mandatory guidelines along with some optional guidelines from the framework in their organisation, participated in peer audits with their fellow participants and attended a combined development workshop online. Finally, Vector42 has audited each network, which assures the credibility and integrity of the certification process.
The guidelines implemented through the eco-certificate were developed and designed specifically for and by network organisations through the SHIFT project. These organisations tend to be small in size but large in terms of influence and with most of their environmental impact stemming from travel. The buddy and peer audit system connects networks with each other around climate action. A significant feature of our workshop together in autumn 2024 was around sharing best practice that participants had developed and implemented through being part of the SHIFT Culture community. Participants also contributed to a review of the guidelines taking place as we enter the last year of the eco-certificate pilot phase.
‘We continue to be impressed and inspired by the way eco-certificate participant networks have brought their eco-guidelines to life through their performance in the audits and in their learning with the community’ Caro Overy, Green Arts Manager, Culture for Climate Scotland
In 2025, we look forward to supporting the existing networks with implementing yet more optional guidelines from the framework and to welcoming new networks to the scheme. A limited number of new places exist for more European network organisations wishing to join the scheme. Please contact Caro Overy – caro.overy@cultureforclimate.scot – for more information.
Congratulations to this year’s SHIFT eco-certified cultural network organisations:
AEC (Association Européenne des Conservatoires, Académies de Musique et Musikhochschulen)
ASSITEJ International (International Association of Theatre & Performing Arts for Children & Young People)
Circostrada (European network for contemporary circus and outdoor arts)
ECHO (European Concert Hall Organisation)
EDN (European Dance Development Network)
ELIA (Globally connected European network for higher arts education)
EMC (European Music Council)
ENCATC (European network on cultural management and policy)
EJN (Europe Jazz Network)
IETM (International network for contemporary performing arts)
IMC (International Music Council)
REMA (European Network for Early Music)
Res Artis (Worldwide Network of Arts Residencies)
