Living Lab

Sara Jeffris, an ambassador Bornholm’s craft ecosystem, has proposed the development of a kiln capable of firing ceramics using waste oil from restaurants as an alternative energy source. In collaboration with BOFA, she is working to establish the necessary technical expertise and stakeholder connections to advance this initiative. Given BOFA’s existing partnerships with local restaurants, which currently incur disposal costs for used frying oil, this project presents an opportunity to repurpose waste into a valuable energy resource. While significant development remains, the initiative represents a commitment to fostering innovation and expanding knowledge in sustainable ceramic production. The project concept has been introduced to students at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) and Copenhagen Business School (CBS) for potential development. Although it has not yet garnered significant interest, efforts to refine and advance the idea are ongoing.

This initiative aims to critically assess and improve current waste handling and management practices, with a particular focus on the export of whole brick waste to Gamle Mursten in Svendborg—an approach currently integrated into the Zero Waste Initiative. By questioning this practice, the project seeks to promote localized responsibility and action while building upon and enhancing Gamle Mursten’s successful business model. Through the integration of professional knowledge and craftsmanship from local artists, the project contributes creatively to the green transition. A central strategy of the initiative is the use of artistic visual communication to emphasize the role of creative perspectives in driving sustainable innovation. By engaging in artistic experimentation, the project aims to inspire and mobilize the local community, encouraging dialogue on the necessity of taking full responsibility for waste—or at the very least, advancing toward this goal. Through fostering an open and thought-provoking discourse, the project advocates for a re-evaluation of waste management systems while cultivating a sense of shared accountability and collective responsibility. Bricks, as the only recyclable construction material capable of functioning as a load-bearing element, require a high degree of craftsmanship in both assembly and reuse. This distinctive characteristic closely aligns with the principles of craft and circular innovation, reinforcing the relevance of artisanal expertise in sustainable construction practices. At present, the project is actively seeking an approved site within the municipality to proceed with its implementation. Securing a location will open opportunities for collaborative fundraising, supporting artistic and cultural projects in partnership with the municipality. Ultimately, the project fosters deep cross-sector collaboration and dialogue while emphasizing the importance of long-term commitment and sustainable maintenance practices.

Bornholm’s craft sector plays a pivotal role in the island's tourism industry, offering both cultural and economic value. Recognizing this influence, there is significant potential for craft makers to collaborate with key stakeholders, including hotels, restaurants, and museums, to support the transition toward sustainable tourism. Through these partnerships, the craft sector can contribute to the development of environmentally responsible and culturally enriching tourism experiences. Currently, the initiative is in the ideation phase, exploring potential collaborations that offer innovative perspectives on tourism. These initiatives aim to encourage visitors to redefine their experience by fostering deeper engagement with Bornholm’s unique cultural and environmental landscape. By emphasizing the island’s small and vulnerable community, the project seeks to cultivate a sense of stewardship and shared responsibility, ensuring the long-term preservation and sustainable development of Bornholm.

The HEPHAESTUS Project aims to establish a high-quality, well-designed repair workshop that challenges conventional perceptions of waste and redefines its value. By addressing issues of material longevity and consumption habits, the initiative seeks to promote more sustainable approaches to resource use. BOFA currently collects over 200 tons of textile waste per year. In response, the project is developing a workshop dedicated to repurposing textile waste through the Korean traditional craft of BoJaGi, including JoGakBo and traditional gift-wrapping techniques. This initiative aims to inspire a mindful approach to gift-giving and value creation, embedding sustainability within cultural craftsmanship. BoJaGi is a traditional Korean textile art form used for wrapping, covering, and carrying objects. Rooted in principles of sustainability, it promotes the reuse of fabric and highlights the importance of thoughtful craftsmanship. A specific variation, JoGakBo, involves patchwork stitching of fabric scraps to create visually striking geometric patterns. Historically, this technique served as a resourceful method for repurposing leftover textiles, aligning closely with waste reduction and conscious consumption practices. Additionally, the project is investigating potential collaborations with public libraries to expand the workshop’s reach and enhance its impact on community engagement and sustainable education.