Green Mark initiative transforms waste into art across two Russian towns

The Green Mark initiative is set to return this summer, bringing creative eco-friendly projects to Omsukchan and Evensk. The programme builds on the success of Trash Hunt, a Polymetal project launched three years ago to promote sustainability through art and community action. In Evensk, children have already turned an old fishing boat into a colourful art installation. The piece now serves as a popular gathering spot for locals. Yelena Lekhina, a senior instructor at the Khekhet ethnocultural centre, plans to update the installation this year to keep it fresh and engaging.

This year, the Green Mark initiative will expand its reach. Volunteers from the Omsukchan Youth Club Portal will participate for the first time. Their leader, Ivan Titchenko, intends to refurbish old school furniture as part of the project. The initiative encourages turning discarded materials into artistic installations to brighten public spaces.

Anastasia Shimanskaya, the project’s author and curator, notes a shift in focus. The programme now emphasises transforming waste into practical and decorative objects. Alongside art, the Bureau of Good Deeds category supports community clean-ups, landscaping, and animal welfare efforts. Organisers are also discussing additional eco-friendly ideas for future editions. The initiative will run in both towns this summer. It aims to inspire local creativity while reducing waste. More projects under the Green Mark name are expected as discussions continue.