Sustainability in the Art Market

The art world has always been a custodian of culture, legacy and beauty. But today, it’s being asked to take on a new role: steward of the planet. As sustainability becomes a defining issue across industries, the art market is undergoing a quiet but meaningful transformation.

At Price Forbes, we work with collectors, institutions and advisors who are not only passionate about art, but also conscious of its impact. Here’s how the market is evolving and what it means for those who live and breathe it.

Environmental shifts

From the grandeur of international art fairs to the logistics of transporting a single canvas, the environmental footprint of the art world is under increasing scrutiny.

• Art fairs like Frieze and Art Basel are introducing carbon offsetting, encouraging local sourcing and rethinking how works are shipped and displayed.
• Artists and galleries are embracing recycled, biodegradable and sustainably sourced materials, while studios are adopting greener building standards and reducing waste.

For collectors, this shift is influencing acquisition decisions, conservation methods, and even how collections are transported and insured.

Ethics, equity, and inclusion

Sustainability isn’t just about carbon, it’s about conscience.

• Provenance and cultural sensitivity are now front and centre. Collectors and institutions are demanding transparency, especially around works with colonial or indigenous origins.
• Diversity and inclusion are reshaping the market, with growing support for underrepresented artists and a push for more accessible, inclusive spaces.

These shifts are not only ethical imperatives, they’re also shaping long-term value and reputation.