The Database of Eco-friendly Art Materials
Ceramics
Traditional ceramics production is far from benign it terms of sustainability. It often requires large amounts of energy for firing and glazing, as well as the use of toxic chemicals for glazing and coloring. Moreover, some coloring oxides, like cobalt, are rare, often mined in regions where unethical practices are common. Glazes can also include pollutants, including lead and barium.
Here is the shortlist of ideas that can help you make your ceramics practice more sustainable:
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Choose local clay if possible – this way you can reduce emissions from delivering the material.
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Use low-waste and low-energy production methods. 

These days kilns can be powered by electricity or even solar power. Another tip would be to choose a kiln with thick bricks or add an extra insulation – it will help to reduce energy loss. Also, consider one time firing.
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Reuse all unfired clay

Don’t throw away your failed pieces. If they are still in the wet state, you can combine and reuse them.
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Use and dispose of water responsibly

While creating ceramics, not every process requires fresh water. For example, for moistening clay, cleaning hands and tools you can use water that has already been used once. Just collect it in a bath or bucket. You can also look into dry shaping methods or finishing techniques to further minimize the water use. And be mindful of proper disposal of water, especially when it contains clay residues or glaze materials – as it can pollute the drain.
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Recycle excess glaze

Conventional ceramic glazing often contains toxic components such as lead and other metallic oxides and salts. It would be a good idea to search for glazes that are lead-free, low in heavy metals, and free from harmful solvents. Another option would be to incorporating natural dyes into your pieces. For example, wood or plant ashes can be used to create unique glaze effects, and natural pigments such as turmeric, parsley, or carrot juice can be used for colouring.
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Experiment with a 3D clay printer

Although this option is not always better than the traditional ceramics technology, in some cases, the use of 3D printing put can help you to reduce the energy use and produce less waste. To decide what would be the most sustainable option, you should calculate the possible energy consumption for both cases.
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