Cat Eccles MP was delighted to welcome Minister McDonald to the Stourbridge Glass Museum this week to see firsthand how Stourbridge’s world-renowned glass industry is pioneering more sustainable ways of working while preserving centuries of craftsmanship.
The visit brought together Minister McDonald, Cat Eccles MP, Stourbridge Glass Museum Director Alexander Goodger and internationally renowned glass artist Allister Malcolm to discuss how innovation can help energy intensive industries reduce emissions while protecting skilled jobs and traditional manufacturing.
During the visit, Allister Malcolm demonstrated his pioneering glassmaking techniques using a custom built electric kiln, manufactured by a specialist company in Burntwood, Staffordshire. The kiln dramatically reduces the energy required for glass production and offers a model that could be adopted across the wider glass sector and other energy intensive creative industries’, including ceramics.
The Minister also toured the Stourbridge Glass Museum, exploring the area’s rich industrial heritage alongside examples of Allister Malcolm’s contemporary work, demonstrating how Stourbridge continues to combine worldclass craftsmanship with innovation.
Cat Eccles MP said:
“Stourbridge has been synonymous with glassmaking for generations, and it was a real pleasure to welcome Minister McDonald to see how our local industry is continuing to innovate for the future.
“Our manufacturers and craftspeople are showing that protecting our industrial heritage and embracing new technology go hand in hand. From developing more energy efficient production methods to creating highly skilled local jobs, Stourbridge is helping to shape what sustainable manufacturing can look like. I’ll continue working with local businesses and Government to ensure industries like ours have the support they need to thrive.”
Alexander Goodger, Director of the Stourbridge Glass Museum, said:
“Stourbridge’s glassmaking story has always been one of innovation. While we are proud to preserve our internationally significant heritage, we’re equally passionate about showcasing the artists and makers who are shaping its future.”
“We were delighted to welcome Minister McDonald to the Museum to demonstrate how sustainability and craftsmanship can sit side by side. By bringing together heritage, education and innovation, we hope to inspire the next generation of glassmakers and ensure Stourbridge remains recognised around the world for excellence in glass.”
Glass artist Allister Malcolm said:
“Glassmaking is an energy intensive craft, but that doesn’t mean sustainability has to come at the expense of creativity or quality. My aim has been to rethink the process from the ground up, developing equipment and techniques that significantly reduce energy use while still producing exceptional work.
If these ideas can be shared more widely across the sector, and even adapted for other crafts like ceramics, we have an exciting opportunity to reduce emissions, lower costs and help safeguard these remarkable industries for future generations.”
