Pilchuck Glass School

Stanwood, WA

Founded in 1971 by Dale Chihuly along with Anne and John Hauberg, Pilchuck Glass School has become a global center for education and experimentation in glassmaking. Located on a forested campus in the Pacific Northwest, the school offers intensive programs that bring together more than 500 artists annually from around the world. With state-of-the-art studios and a legacy rooted in the Studio Glass Movement, Pilchuck fosters artistic risk-taking, mentorship, and technical innovation in glass as a visual art form.

Pilchuck’s climate initiative advances its leadership in sustainable glassmaking by initiating a comprehensive energy assessment and greenhouse gas reduction plan. This project will establish a baseline of energy use, identify key emission sources—including propane-powered furnaces—and explore upgrades such as HVAC retrofits, lighting efficiency, and electrification of studio equipment. The school will also assess the feasibility of on-site renewable energy sources, integrating findings into long-term financial and capital planning. By aligning essential infrastructure upgrades with climate goals, Pilchuck aims to reduce fossil fuel dependence, expand sustainable practices across the glass arts field, and model a low-carbon future for educational and artistic institutions alike.

Milestones

• Conduct comprehensive energy audit of studio, residential, and administrative buildings

• Analyze current emissions and identify infrastructure inefficiencies

• Evaluate options for electrifying gas-powered glass furnaces

• Assess feasibility of on-site renewable energy systems

• Develop a 5–10 year GHG reduction roadmap for capital planning

• Position Pilchuck as a field leader in sustainable glassmaking practices