Green Museum Camp Cairo 2024
Pioneering Sustainability in Museums Through International Collaboration
The Green Museum Camp, a groundbreaking conference held in Cairo on November 13–14, 2024, marked a significant step forward in the global effort to make museums leaders in sustainability. Hosted at the German Archaeological Institute (DAI), the event was part of the larger Green Museum Hub project, funded by the DAAD funding line Ta’ziz. The conference brought together museum professionals, academics, and students to explore innovative ways to integrate sustainable practices into museum operations and exhibitions. Helping museum experts to know how to make museums lead by example in the field of sustainability.
A Collaborative Effort Across Borders
The Green Museum Hub project is a shining example of international cooperation, uniting three countries— Germany, Tunisia, and Egypt—along with three universities, Julius Maximillians-Universität Würzburg, Université de La Manouba Tunis, and Helwan University Cairo. Alongside with partner museums Joining forces from all three countries. This collaboration aims to equip museum experts with the necessary tools and knowledge needed to transform museums into role models of sustainability. By sharing expertise and resources across borders, the project fosters a global network of institutions committed to reducing their environmental impact while continuing to preserve and showcase cultural heritage.
Highlights from the Conference
The Green Museum Camp featured an impressive lineup of speakers who addressed a wide range of topics related to sustainability in museums. Among the notable presentations were:
- Dr. Osama A.W. Abel Maguid Chair ICOM Egypt, and his topic was “CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION AND ADAPTATION OF MUSEUMS IN EGYPT”
Dr. Osama shared theories from ICOM to help design exhibitions that minimize environmental impact while maintaining visual appeal.
- Dr. Jens Bortloff Administrative Director at TECHNOSEUM (Germany): “Towards climate neutrality: how the TECHNOSEUM is trying to achieve it.”
Dr. Jens discussed practical strategies for retrofitting museum buildings to improve energy efficiency and reduce operational costs.
- Ms. Shereen Abd Ul Raouf, Head of Textile & Basketry Conservator Lab at NMEC (Egypt): “Ongoing approach towards ‘Green Conservation’ in NMEC”
Ms. Shereen emphasized the role of museums in using eco and environmentally friendly materials instead of the chemical ones in the conservation process, which will help reducing cost and more effective into preventive conservation.
- Dina Gohar, Curator & Responsible for Sustainability File & Green Museums at The Central Administration of Regional Museums (Egypt): “Community Engagement Strategies in Green Museums”
Ms Dina shared a various experiments held by museums engaging communities and demonstrated the power of community engagement into spreading awareness about sustainability. With the attendance of Professors like Lamya Ben Abid, Guido Fackler, and Aly Abd Allah, who are leading the project, helped create a deeper discussion among the attendees both, physically and online.
A Hybrid Format with Broad Reach
The conference was held in a hybrid format, allowing both in person and online attendance. This approach proved to be highly successful, with a significant number of participants joining virtually from around the world. The hybrid format not only expanded the conference’s reach but also demonstrated the potential for reducing the carbon footprint of large-scale events. Feedback from attendees highlighted the convenience and inclusivity of the online option, with many praising the seamless integration of virtual and in-person sessions.
A Diverse Audience
The Green Museum Camp attracted a diverse audience, ranging from museology students and early-career professionals to seasoned museum experts & employees. This mix of perspectives enriched the discussions and underscored the importance of engaging the next generation of museum leaders in sustainability efforts. The high turnout—both in person and online—reflected the growing interest in sustainability within the cultural sector.
A Step Toward a Greener Future
The Green Museum Camp and the broader Green Museum Hub project represent a vital step toward a more sustainable future for museums. By fostering international collaboration and sharing best practices, the initiative empowers museums to lead by example in the fight against climate change. As the cultural sector continues to grapple with the challenges of sustainability, events like this provide a roadmap for institutions worldwide to follow. The success of the Green Museum Camp is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation. With the momentum generated by this conference, the Green Museum Hub is poised to make a lasting impact on the museum world, proving that sustainability and cultural preservation can go hand in hand.
Report written by Amgad Fouda, February 2025
