Shaping the Future: The EUNIC Sustainability Toolkit for Cultural Climate Action

The cultural sector plays an important role in climate action, and this has been recognised by cultural institutions across the world. With EUNIC's Sustainability Toolkit, discover how cultural organisations can integrate sustainability into practices and operations as we strive to address global environmental challenges and become a catalyst for positive change.

This article is commissioned as part of culture360.ASEF.org's Going beyond 'green' open call. Through a series of articles and podcasts, we look at various endeavours, insights and trends that broaden the discourse of sustainability beyond the environmental aspect within the arts and culture sector.  

---

As we confront the escalating environmental challenges facing our planet, cultural institutions around the world are increasingly called upon to shape public discourse, inspire action, and lead by example. At this critical moment, the role of culture in addressing global environmental challenges has never been more urgent. 

In response, EUNIC - EU National Institutes for Culture's newly launched Sustainability Toolkit provides cultural organisations with practical tools, actionable insights, and a collaborative framework to integrate sustainability into cultural practices at both individual and organisational levels. This toolkit serves as a vital resource for cultural practitioners who recognise the importance of incorporating sustainability into their operations and long-term strategies. 

Culture at the Forefront of Global Environmental Action 

Co-authoring the EUNIC Sustainability Toolkit has been a transformative experience - both professionally and personally. This project represents far more than a resource; it marks a significant milestone in embedding sustainability within the cultural sector and reflects a broader shift in how cultural institutions can meaningfully integrate climate action into their core missions.

Working closely with Sustainability Manager Eva Balaban and EUNIC network members, I witnessed first-hand the power of collaboration and the sector’s eagerness for practical, values-driven tools. For me, this journey reaffirmed the cultural sector’s capacity to be a driving force in sustainability - not only by reducing its own impact but by inspiring wider systemic change.

The toolkit reflects this vision. It is not just a collection of practices, but a tangible, accessible pathway for cultural institutions to engage meaningfully with the global movement for environmental sustainability.

1. EUNIC Kolkata, “Moving Kolkata – Kolkata Moving”, European Spaces of Culture © Kallol Datta’ 

A Toolkit for Every Stage of the Sustainability Journey 

Whether you are just beginning to explore sustainability or are already implementing robust initiatives, the EUNIC Sustainability Toolkit is designed to guide you through the process. While it was developed for the EUNIC network, its resources are widely applied across the cultural sector. The toolkit provides the essential tools and frameworks that can help cultural organisations embed sustainability into all facets of their operations, regardless of size or stage. 

When developing it, we envisioned the toolkit being used as a dynamic resource - one that evolves with the needs of the sector. For cultural organisations just starting out, it provides foundational knowledge and practical steps. For others further along the journey, it presents deeper insights and strategies for advancing sustainability efforts. The toolkit encourages a long-term, continuous process of reflection and action.

Key resources in the Toolkit include: 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Climate Action and Sustainability: This section offers foundational knowledge, answering common questions and providing a solid base for further exploration of climate action and sustainability. 

How to Get Engaged: Making Sustainability More Engaging and Inclusive: Practical examples and inspiration for integrating sustainability into your organisation in a way that is both impactful and inclusive. 

The Communications Toolkit: A dynamic guide for cultural relations practitioners to craft compelling environmental narratives. This section includes strategies for effective communication about sustainability, ensuring your efforts resonate across diverse communities. It also addresses intersectionality, exploring the connection between social, economic, and environmental issues. 

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Cultural Relations Institutes: Guidance on how to measure and assess the impact of sustainability initiatives, offering tools for tracking progress and driving continuous improvement. 

Glossary of Terms: A thorough resource for understanding essential sustainability and climate action terminology, ensuring clarity and consistency in your communications.

Addressing Interconnected Environmental Issues 

While climate change is a pressing concern, it is one aspect of a broader set of interconnected environmental issues impacting ecosystems, societies, and cultures. Biodiversity loss, water scarcity, and ecosystem degradation are all deeply linked, with far-reaching consequences. To tackle these challenges effectively, we must adopt a holistic, systems-thinking approach that recognises the interplay between environmental, social, economic, and cultural factors. 

Crucially, environmental issues are inseparable from questions of social and economic justice, as they disproportionately impact marginalised communities and reinforce existing inequalities. Achieving meaningful and lasting change requires an inclusive approach - one that places equity and environmental justice at the heart of decision-making. In my experience, cultural institutions are particularly well-placed to champion these principles. With their deep community ties and significant influence over public perception, they can help ensure that sustainability efforts are not only environmentally effective but also inclusive and just.

2. EUNIC Serbia, “Belgrade Urban Oases: Sustainable Transformation of Neglected Spaces”, Cluster Fund © Aleksandar Gazibara 

How the Sector is Already Using the Toolkit 

Since its launch, I’ve seen the toolkit become exactly what we hoped for - a living resource that evolves with the sector and supports real, lasting change.

Already, several cultural institutes have begun putting its components into practice. Some are using the KPIs section to measure their carbon footprints, while others have adopted the Communications Toolkit to craft more effective sustainability messaging. These early applications show just how much potential the toolkit holds to spark meaningful change and inspire further action across the sector.

Be a Catalyst for Change in Environmental Sustainability 

The EUNIC Sustainability Toolkit is not just a set of guidelines — it's a call to action. Cultural institutions have the unique opportunity to lead by example, driving impactful climate action through their programming, public engagement, and partnerships. By utilising the toolkit, organisations can kick-start or enhance their sustainability initiatives and position themselves as catalysts for positive change within their communities.

In fact, this is already happening within the sector. Many cultural institutions are revisiting their programming to reduce environmental impacts, incorporating more inclusive practices, and amplifying climate-conscious messages through exhibitions and performances. The toolkit has played a vital role in supporting and accelerating this momentum. 

In line with this collective movement, EUNIC is currently preparing for COP30 in Brazil and other strategic opportunities to drive climate action, while also organising a series of Knowledge Sharing Workshops to strengthen our efforts and foster a unified, strategic approach to sustainability within the cultural sector.

Collaboration for a Sustainable Future 

The environmental and social challenges we face are immense, but the cultural sector is uniquely equipped to drive meaningful change. By drawing inspiration from the EUNIC Sustainability Toolkit, cultural institutions can not only strengthen their initiatives but also contribute to a global movement grounded in resilience, justice, and collaboration. 

Together, we have the opportunity to create a future where culture is central to the global environmental movement - where sustainability is a collective responsibility, and cultural relations help shape a more sustainable future for all. Explore the toolkit today and discover how your organisation can play a pivotal role in this transformative journey.

---

About the Author

Maria Elena De Matteo is a communications and sustainability strategist specialising in the intersection of arts, culture, and environmental impact. With extensive experience in both Asia and Europe, she founded We Move Waves, a consultancy that partners with cultural organisations, artists, and festivals to promote sustainable practices and social justice through creative campaigns. Maria Elena is also a certified environmental assessor for festivals and live events through A Greener Future and co-authored the EUNIC Sustainability Toolkit, launched in October 2024.