QEPrize supports ‘A Month of Making’ for more sustainable Christmas presents
The Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering is delighted to support a new initiative devised by teacher and author Alom Shaha entitled ‘A Month of Making,’ inspired by COP26 and the drive for sustainability.
Running from 15 November to 12 December the campaign will feature a selection of videos with simple instructions for making a range of models and gifts, from simple machines to pieces of jewellery. The aim is to encourage people to make at least one Christmas present this year and, by using everyday household materials, cut down on waste and unnecessary purchasing.
Young people (and adults!) will be able to watch engineers, scientists, designers and craftspeople turning left over objects into beautiful new creations. The Makers include watchmakers Rebecca and Craig Struthers, materials whizz Mark Miodownik and science presenter Fran Scott.
Speaking about the project, Alom said “We want to encourage people to make stuff for various reasons, ranging from promoting engineering and encouraging scientific reasoning to thinking about ways in which we can reduce consumerism and waste. For me, the main reason to do this sort of thing is that there is a genuine joy to be found in making things and in being ‘creative’ in this manner.”
The videos will be available to view on the Month of Making webpage and the QEPrize YouTube channel. We will also be running a competition throughout the month with the chance to win copies of Alom’s book ‘Mr Shaha’s Marvellous Machines’. Entrants can create their own Christmas ‘make’ and post a photo on Twitter or Instagram, tagging #AMonthOfMaking for a chance to win.
The project is also being supported by the following organisations:
