ICOM is pleased to announce the publication of the ICOM Award Book, dedicated to the outstanding projects from the inaugural edition of the ICOM Award for Sustainable Development Practice in Museums.
Conceived as a lasting legacy of the 2025 award, this book presents the shortlisted projects, including the finalists and winner, while also offering a summary analysis of the full body of submissions received. Intended as both a record and a resource, this publication invites readers to explore practical examples, reflect on shared challenges, and draw inspiration from museums worldwide that are shaping more sustainable museum practices through their work.
“The remarkable success of this inaugural edition of the ICOM Award serves not only as a celebration, but also as a powerful call to action. The projects featured in this publication demonstrate incredible potential of museums when they courageously and creatively embrace their social role and responsibilities. They challenge and inspire us to push boundaries, create deeper collaborations, and engage a wider range of communities, in respect of the promise to ‘Leave No One Behind’. These museums exemplify the transformative power of their influence, illustrating their crucial role in shaping the future. Together, museums have the capacity to drive significant change on a grand scale.”
Medea Ekner, Director General of ICOM
“For all of us at ICOM, the Award for Sustainable Development Practice in Museums is a way to recognise and amplify this work and bring it into our global shared space. By highlighting these initiatives, we celebrate not only individual achievements, but the collective strength of a global network that learns from one another and evolves together.
I invite you to learn about these projects with the hope to get you as inspired as I am by the diversity of approaches and the depth of the engagement they represent with Sustainability. Above all, may this publication reflect the remarkable impact our members are achieving, and the difference they are making every day in communities around the world.”
Antonio Rodríguez, President of ICOM