Transforming Trash (TRANSFORM)

Western consumerist societies and throwaway culture have contributed to the ongoing production of waste –this matter of common interest is rarely addressed in media, even though it concerns everyone. In the past few decades some scientific
and artistic projects have tackled the issue, particularly through studies in the emerging field of archaeology of the contemporary past. Inspired by these early attempts and providing a new perspective, the interdisciplinary project
Transforming Trash draws on archaeology of the contemporary past , as well as museum studies. The project organizescreative practices of transforming trash as participatory archaeologies of the contemporary past. Methods of participation in
exhibitions are explored and developed by using design-thinking approaches. Such forms of communication between the paradigms of natural science and the humanities has two objectives: a) to develop of new exhibition formats which stimulate
debate and raise awareness about environmental issues, b) to develop new didactic principles as part of this process. Using visitor ethnography and the novel design thinking method, TRANSFORM aims to contribute to the development of innovative
museum didactics on crucial environmental issues, and generate understanding of the necessary transition from industrial society to sustainable modes of living.