Outlines of Nuclear Geography by Sabina Blasiotti

Winner of Environmental Award 2021

The Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL

‘Outlines of Nuclear Geography is an infographic illustration of nuclear waste materials (e.g. spent fuel, i-graphite, metals, concrete and soil) forming the silhouette of a mountain and stacked upon each other following two hierarchies of volume and radioactive contamination. The elevation further annotates a number of different decontamination technologies and potential reuse projects, distinguished for each material. The elevation of a mountain is a direct response to the design of deterrence markers (such as The Landscape of Thorns or Spike Field by Michael Brill), which employ archetypes to signal an invisible nuclear threat hidden underground. This illustration engages in a similar approach, but in reverse. The mountain stands for an archetype of eminence, abundance and presence. It does not signal an invisible threat, rather the threat is visualised, classified and exposed in all its matter, as a tangible issue that can and should be addressed.’

Judges’ comments

The judges commended Blasiotti for their drawing as a captivating tool to draw attention to a very real problem whilst also creating a beautifully composed and coloured piece. The judges admired the way in which Blasiotti visualised a usually invisible, under-discussed environmental threat categorising the elements within an intriguing and evocative infographic drawing. “Outlines of Nuclear Geography is a fascinating critical study of a very real world dilemma that will likely worsen as we become more reliant on nuclear energy as a future resource. It’s encouraging to see this form of examination into less ‘mainstream’ environmental issues and it’s successfully been drawn in a way that is both critical and captivating.”

Alchemy Kitchen by Clarence Credensa Tan

Highly Commended for Environmental Award 2021

National University of Singapore

‘Situated above a bioswale, the kitchen engages in closed loop cycles such as greywater filtration and composting, encouraging low-impact lifestyle and resources sustenance in an outdoor adventure setting. Campers will learn field cooking methods through a series of DIY kitchens made from salvaged components.’

Judges’ comments

The judges admired the subtlety to which Tan’s drawing engaged and conveyed the idea of a low-impact lifestyle. “Tan’s engaging perspective section invites the viewer to really explore the moments throughout the drawing. A real sense of community and life is conveyed within Tan’s linework. The architecture feels connected to and an extension of its environment. The activity really does feel communal and at one with nature and the narrative of the project.”