The glass, which was discovered in Mesopotamia in the B.C. 3000s and entered human life, supports many vital technologies today, supports the goal of reaching a green world with its sustainability and enriches our lives. The UN also declared 2022 as the International Year of Glass to highlight the scientific, economic and cultural roles of glass.
The International Commission on Glass (ICG), the Community of Glass Associations (CGA) and ICOM-Glass are promoting 2022 as a “United Nations International Year of Glass” to underline its scientific, economic and cultural roles. Glass supports many vital technologies, facilitates sustainability and a green world and enriches our lives, yet often goes unnoticed. ICG, which was founded in 1933 and is the most effective organization of the glass world today comprised of universities, scientific institutions, glass manufacturers and suppliers, set out from these vital features of glass.
This exciting journey began in 2018. Support came from 1500 universities and research centers, societies and associations, museums, artists, educators, manufacturers and companies in 78 countries on 5 continents. Against situations caused by the pandemic, a draft resolution outlining was negotiated with the missions of several UN countries during April and the formal resolution was agreed at the United Nations General Assembly on May 18, 2021.
The former president of the ICG, Prof. Alicia Durán points out that she is indebted to the Spanish Mission at the UN, especially to the Spanish Ambassador Agustín Santos Maraver and Ana Alonso, who led this process through difficult and twists and turns of diplomacy in stressful times and says “My deepest thanks go to all who responded to our vision. I need to cite some special persons such as David Pye and John Parker, but do not forget the many experts and colleagues that collaborated to create splendid videos and documents justifying our project; they were always ready and overflowing with ideas and support.”
Sicecam Group, which is among the leading players of the global glass industry from Turkey, worked with ICG, of which it is an active member, to declare 2022 as the "UN International Year of Glass”.
Thousands of events are taking place in many corners of the world this year: Congresses and seminars, industrial fairs, glass schools will coexist with artistic exhibitions, books… The planning of the events relies on a network of volunteers. National organizations focus on advertising, sharing best practice and providing a supportive environment. A Steering Committee, based on representatives who can coordinate effectively with national institutions, promote the best ideas and multiply their impact.
Glass events spread throughout the year can be followed at https://iyog2022.org/home/upcoming_events/.
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