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Sustainability
As ceramicists, we hold a unique potential to minimize our customers environmental impact by replacing single use items and items of poor quality that will end up in the landfill with works of art that will (hopefully) last a lifetime. From the clay we source to the energy we consume in firing, every step of our process carries an ecological footprint. It’s up to us to make conscious choices—reclaiming materials, reducing waste, using sustainable practices, and analyzing the carbon impacts through the whole product lifecycle. Our work is rooted in the earth, and with that comes a duty to respect and protect it. Creating beauty shouldn’t come at the planet’s expense. Responsible ceramics means honoring tradition while innovating for a sustainable future.
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It is always possible to be more sustainable, but the ways I bring that consciousness to my work are mainly through the four categories explored here; materials, carbon, water, and shipping practices.
Materials
To be sustainable with pottery materials, artists and hobbyists can adopt practices that minimize waste and environmental impact. Choosing locally sourced clay reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation, while reclaiming and reusing clay scraps helps cut down on material waste. Non-toxic, lead-free glazes should be prioritized to protect both the environment and human health. Certain materials are harvested unethically and can be avoided in the pottery process.
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My goal is to do an audit of the materials I already use to determine sustainability, whether it's locally sourced, and the ethics of using it.
Carbon
As a local seller, I know that when customers choose to shop with me, they’re helping reduce the community’s carbon footprint. Unlike large-scale operations that rely on long-distance shipping and mass production, I source many of my materials locally and produce goods in small batches, which means fewer emissions and less waste. I also use minimal packaging and often reuse materials to cut down on environmental impact. By supporting my business, customers aren’t just getting a quality product—they’re making a conscious choice to support sustainability and keep our local economy thriving. Every purchase makes a difference.
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I want to build my selling practices with incentives to drive local sales and minimize the carbon emissions from my pots.
Water
Saving water in a pottery studio is essential for both sustainability and cost-efficiency. One of the most effective strategies is to set up a water recycling system, such as using settling buckets to capture clay-filled water, allowing the solids to settle before reusing the clean water on top. Instead of running water continuously, potters can use designated rinse buckets for cleaning tools and hands, which greatly reduces water waste. Keeping clay off hands and tools as much as possible before washing also minimizes contamination and extends the usability of rinse water.
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My goal is to set up a rain water capture system and a water reclaim system to be able to use water over and over again. The water that needs to be disposed of will go into the garden.
Shipping Practices
My promise when it comes to shipping is a "recycled first" approach. Any materials I use will be recycled when possible and if I need to purchase anything it will be recyclable or compostable materials. I do not want to be contributing to the great pacific garbage patch. As I learn more about shipping I will do my best to offer low-carbon or carbon neutral shipping options, or explore the potential of offering a carbon offset option.
