The landmark event, hosted in the UK for the first time in 50 years, will bring together 1000 global designers and industry leaders to address the urgent need for sustainable design solutions in the face of the world’s climate crisis
Photography courtesy of Design Council
With less than a year to go until the World Design Congress 2025, the Design Council has revealed five ambassadors representing the forefront of British design. These leaders include artist and stage designer, Es Devlin; industrial designer, Tom Dixon; fashion designer; Foday Dumbuya; creative and technology leader, Suhair Khan; and architect, Professor Lesley Lokko OBE.
Scheduled from September 9-10, 2025, at the Barbican Centre, the Congress will focus on the topic Design for Planet – a global call for the industry to play a crucial role in addressing the climate crisis. The five ambassadors will advocate for sustainable design practices, raise awareness and help select 20 emerging design innovators to be profiled as the 25 for 2025, a cohort showcasing cutting-edge solutions to environmental challenges. The ‘25 for 2025’ designers will be profiled on the soon to launch digital platform.
‘As a global design capital, London is proud to be hosting the World Design Congress for the first time in 50 years,’ says Justine Simons OBE, Deputy Mayor for Culture and the Creative Industries. ‘It will bring together the world’s leading creatives and show the vital role of design in addressing the climate crisis and boosting the green economy. We are looking forward to showcasing our city’s contribution, as we build a greener London for all.’
Photography courtesy of Design Council
This sentiment encapsulates the spirit of the Congress, which aims to unite disciplines across technology, fashion, architecture and more in the pursuit of a greener, sustainable future. The 34th edition of the World Design Organization’s global Congress – hosted by the Design Council – is a key moment for British design on the global stage and highlights the UK’s position as a key player in the international design community.
Showcasing some of the most innovative design solutions to the climate crisis, from designers and business leaders through talks, workshops and exhibits, the industry will come together to listen and share in person the solutions. Together, they will champion narrative-driven principles, pioneer next-generation materials and reshape educational and creative frameworks, democratising design through emerging technologies.
Further programme details, including ticket information, will be announced soon.
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