TRANSFORMATIVE COLLABORATIONS FOR SUSTAINABLE MATERIAL SELECTION PRACTICES

In an era characterized by the pressing need for environmental sustainability, educational initiatives that empower students with the knowledge and skills to engage in sustainable practices are crucial. This paper presents a case study of a Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) project that explores the transformative potential of intercultural collaborations in the context of sustainable material selection practices. The project, involving students from University of Monterrey (Mexico) and Oakland Community College (USA), challenged participants to research and specify sustainable materials for residential interiors while incorporating local artisanal, handcrafted elements. This collaborative approach transcends geographical boundaries, enabling students to delve into the complexities of sustainability, examine materials through a global lens, and consider cultural and environmental impacts. The project aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDGs 9, 11, 12, 13, and 17, by incorporating international perspectives. The paper explores how the project's objectives, methodologies, and outcomes, nurtured the development of intercultural competence and collaborative partnerships while teaching responsible consumption, mitigation of climate change, and preservation of local traditions and cultural heritage. The findings demonstrate that such collaborative initiatives hold the potential to catalyse sustainable transformations in material selection practices, preparing the next generation of designers to contribute to a more environmentally responsible and culturally inclusive future. This case study serves as a valuable model for educators and institutions seeking to integrate intercultural collaboration and sustainable design into their curricula, offering a blueprint for addressing the pressing global challenges of our time.