Wardrobe of the Future, giant bug hotel, vertical farming and more - Designs for a Cooler Planet exhibition of ideas for a more planet-friendly life

Numerous solutions ideated by Aalto University researchers and students showcase practical examples where everything we use is produced wisely, recycled and reused – while limiting global warming. The exhibition is based on research-based concrete measures to help achieve the Paris Agreement's 1.5 degree target to stop global warming.

‘It is clear that we cannot continue like this, we need to find more sustainable solutions’, said Kristiina Mäkelä, Provost of Aalto University, at the opening of the exhibition on Wednesday 7 September. ‘Our community wants to give a hopeful message: the future can be saved. We need to value more our materials and we also need to learn from the past. We can design garments and buildings that age well.’

Mäkelä stressed that the strength of the Aalto community lies in cross-disciplinary collaboration and creativity. ‘We need diverse small steps throughout the system, that together make the change. Aalto’s uniqueness is best showcased here in these brilliant ideas designed in collaboration, through our collective creativity.’

Designs for a Cooler Planet is an annual exhibition at Aalto University that offers perspectives on a sustainable future through multidisciplinary and creative concepts. The exhibition highlights research-based bold, experimental and creative concepts that illustrate radical approaches to holistic change. The projects explore sustainability in all aspects of life and everyday life through sub-themes that change each year, focusing on built environments, fashion, food, materials and more.

The three thematic exhibitions of the event will consist of more than 20 projects, which will be on display on the Aalto University campus from 7 September to 12 October 2022, while the two satellite exhibitions will be located in the centre of Helsinki. In addition to the exhibitions, the programme includes open seminars, discussion sessions, webinars and workshops around the same theme.

Designs for a Cooler Planet is part of the Helsinki Design Week programme.

More sustainable materials, style and food

Satellite exhibitions:

Alusta pavilion
Environmentally conscious architecture
Yard between Design museum and Museum of Finnish Architecture, Korkeavuorenkatu 23/Kasarmikatu 24

The Trees of Pikku-Finlandia
An exhibition by Josh Krute
Pikku-Finlandia, Töölönlahti bay

Join us in the exhibition on site or online!

Designs for a Cooler Planet 2022: Life 1.5
7.9.–12.10.2022

Aalto University School of Arts, Design and Architecture, Väre building, Otaniementie 14
Mon–Thu 7:45–21:00, Fri 7:45–20:00, Sat 9:00–17:00, Sun and 10.9. closed