Dulux is proud to announce its support for the visionary GREEN GRADS initiative, a unique UK platform dedicated to promoting the next generation of sustainably focused talent in design, art and engineering. With shared goals to foster innovation and champion sustainability, this collaboration will pave the way for sustainable advancements within the design industry.
Dulux is committed to transforming the way people paint by prioritising sustainability in everything it does. From the formulation of ultra-low VOC free, air improving and water-based paints across both DIY and professional ranges to more sustainable packaging, greener transport and making recycling old paint practical and easy for everyone through the Community Repaint scheme. Dulux aims to make a positive difference to both the planet and people. For example, in the professional paint ranges, loved by architects, designers and decorators alike Dulux Trade offers a range of products that are now 99.9% VOC free, including Dulux Trade Ultra Matt, Dulux Trade Supermatt and Dulux Trade Spraymatt, significantly improving indoor air quality.
Partnering with GREEN GRADS is a natural extension of Dulux’s sustainability mission, empowering a new generation of designers who share its vision for a more sustainable future.
GREEN GRADS was founded in 2021 by design editor Barbara Chandler, shortly to be joined by Michael Czerwinski, as co-director and show producer. There are now 200 graduates listed on the website (a cohort for each year), and recruiting has started for a fifth cohort. Barbara Chandler explains: "Our GREEN GRADS span a wide variety of disciplines including engineers, product and furniture designers, interior designers and architects, material scientists, ceramicists, artists and more. For example, our artists make statements about the environment…and our engineers suggest solutions.” Many GREEN GRADS now have their university projects implemented in the “real world” and are truly making a difference.
Barbara Chandler further explains, “GREEN GRADS is financed entirely by an outward-facing, forward-looking cooperative of stellar British brands. Now with this significant new support from Dulux, we can provide our graduates with further exceptional opportunities to showcase their work, connect with industry leaders, and bring their sustainable ideas to life.
“This latest and much appreciated partnership will surely inspire meaningful change and amplify the voices of talented individuals who are passionate about creating a greener, more innovative future."
As part of its sponsorship, Dulux will provide resources, inspiration and mentorship to help GREEN GRADS showcase the innovation of their talented assembly of graduates. Support will include funding for flagship events, exhibition materials, and professional assistance in hosting events. GREEN GRADS is committed to a programme of high-profile showcases, highlighting the importance of sustainability in design.
“We are thrilled to partner with GREEN GRADS to support the next generation of designers who share our passion for sustainability,” said Marianne Shillingford, Creative Director at Dulux. “By championing innovative, sustainably focused talent, we are not only investing in the future of design but also reinforcing our commitment to creating a more sustainable industry. I’m eagerly looking forward to meeting the 2025 cohort of graduates and witnessing the incredible creations they will bring to life this year.”
Throughout the year, Dulux and GREEN GRADS will continue to host events and initiatives that spotlight sustainability and celebrate creative innovation. GREEN GRADS put on their own shows – four major shows to date, with another planned for the autumn of 2025 – and take part in other people’s shows, notably Grand Designs Live, the Surface Design Show, London Design Week, the GNCCF in Manchester, and Craftworks. They also host a website and YouTube channel and hold Green Days and Salons for networking and knowledge-sharing. Last year, they presented their first Schools Day, an all-day event in an Islington secondary school, reaching 360 pupils aged 13-14. It was very popular, and the GGs have been invited back.
To learn more about GREEN GRADS, visit https://www.greengrads.co.uk/ and for more information about Dulux and its sustainability initiatives, visit https://www.dulux.co.uk/en/sustainability
