We are proud to have contributed to Expedition One, powered by Ecotricity, a groundbreaking event demonstrating how live entertainment can lead the way in climate action. Commissioned by Culture Liverpool and Liverpool City Council, Made By Make collaborated with local makers, residents, and sustainability advocates to design and construct stage signage and a lounge setting that encapsulated the event’s eco-conscious mission.
About Expedition One
Hosted at the ACC Liverpool, Expedition One unfolds with an industry-focused event on 29 November and a public showcase on 30 November, culminating in a three-night music series headlined by Idles, Massive Attack, and Nile Rodgers.
The event is a global first, trialling eight pilot projects to decarbonise live music, TV, and film productions, showcasing Liverpool’s leadership as the world’s first Accelerator City for climate action. By combining cultural innovation and sustainability, Expedition One is proving that eco-friendly practices can inspire and transform entire industries.
Our Sustainable Contribution
For Expedition One, Made By Make worked with a talented network of makers, residents and local suppliers to create stage signage and a lounge setting that exemplified sustainable design principles. Every element was crafted to minimise waste and maximise impact.
Key Collaborations and Techniques
- Repurposing materials: Sustainability begins with reuse. We repurposed materials from Ecotricity’s previous signage, giving them a fresh purpose while reducing waste. In addition to this, we also repurposed gabion planters from a previous commission of ours, integrating them seamlessly into this project.
- Reciprocity Collaboration: To further emphasise eco-friendly practices, we partnered with Reciprocity to source and use recycled paint and consumables, ensuring a low-impact yet vibrant finish.
- Xyleia: Constructed the core structural elements for the stage and lounge, combining durability with eco-conscious materials.
- Mulberry Workshop: Utilised CNC printing and precise construction techniques to craft intricate components for the installation.
- Christine Ellinas and Sarah Teasdale: Crafted the cushions for the lounge area in Ecotricity branding, using recycled filling provided by Roberts Recycling, beautifully marrying comfort and sustainability.
- Ian Currie: Prepared planters and carefully planted greenery, adding natural beauty to the lounge area. Ian also contributed his painting skills to enhance the final designs. Notably, the planters are being rented, giving them a multi-use purpose. After this project, they can return to our space at Make North Docks to add greenery and vibrancy, reinforcing our commitment to sustainability and thoughtful resource sharing.
- Chris Wilson & Sophie Shield: Added the finishing touches with creative, eye-catching paintwork, bringing vibrancy and artistic flair to the installations.
Efficient and Low-Carbon Delivery
Where possible, we’re conscious of our carbon footprint. For deliveries, we worked with Birkenhead Van Hire, a family-led business, opting for smaller vehicles and efficient delivery methods to keep our carbon footprint low. Additionally, we prioritise sourcing materials locally to reduce transportation impacts while supporting regional businesses and communities.
Why This Matters
Expedition One is a shining example of how culture and sustainability can work together. By repurposing materials, collaborating with local makers, and emphasising eco-friendly methods, the event demonstrates that live entertainment can lead the way in reducing environmental impact without sacrificing quality or creativity.
Our work with Culture Liverpool, Liverpool City Council, and Ecotricity reinforces the importance of community-driven innovation. It’s a celebration of what can be achieved when sustainability is integrated into every aspect of design.
Acknowledgements
A huge thank you to Culture Liverpool, Liverpool City Council, and Ecotricity for entrusting us with this project. To our talented collaborators—Xyleia, Mulberry Workshop, Ian Currie, Chris Wilson, Sophie Shield, Christine Ellinas, Sarah Teasdale, Reciprocity, and Roberts Recycling—your dedication and creativity have brought this vision to life. Together, we’re proving that sustainability is not a limitation but an opportunity for innovation. 🌱
