Every Drop Counts
“Every Drop Counts” I wanted to bring awareness to the importance of water and how it is taken for granted. The piece was designed and donated for the Surge Design, Dine and Make a Difference Gala. Through the functional floor standing lamp, I shed light on the wonderful work that Surge do. Providing people with clean water and sanitation. I also want to tell the story of the journey water travels and the importance of clean water.
Many people do not even think twice about water, for them getting clean water is as easy as opening one of the many faucets in their homes. However, for around 600 million people around the world, it is not as easy. They have to travel long distances to get access to water, a burden often completed by the women and young girls. Taking away valuable time that they could have been in school or working top provide for their families.
The majority of the lamp is made from copper pipes, representing the pipes water travels through in our houses to our faucets. The valve on the lamp operates as the on/off and dimmer switch, that allows you to set the brightness of the lamp as per your preference.
The drop-shaped lampshade allows for lighting to be transferred through but also creates interesting shadows that add to the overall design. The shade and base of the lamp are covered using blue single-use aluminium coffee capsules. Representing a ripple made by a water drop and symbolise a ripple of change and how one drop can have an effect.
I won the “The Most Sustainable Design Award” for the piece at the gala.
Title: “Every Drop Counts”
Dimensions: 1500mm x 400mm x 400mm
Medium: Mixed Medium (Aluminium coffee capsules, copper pipes, valves and steel)
About the author, Mariska
Hi, I’m Mariska – podcast host, artist, sustainability advocate and consultant, and storyteller driven by a deep passion for our planet. Sustainability isn’t just a topic I discuss; it’s a way of life I embody through my work, actions, and everyday choices.
My journey began several years ago when I started experimenting with trash as a medium in my artwork. What began as creative curiosity quickly turned into a deep dive into the environmental impact of waste. That curiosity expanded into a broader connection with nature—including a life-changing trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, where I found both clarity and purpose. It was there that I made the decision to leave the corporate world behind and commit fully to environmental work.
In 2018, I took that message public in the UAE by wearing every piece of trash I generated for 30 days. The result—65 kilograms of waste—sparked national conversations around sustainability and waste reduction. That bold experiment also became the catalyst for my podcast, Mama Earth Talk, where I’ve since connected with global thought leaders to explore sustainability and inspire meaningful action.
Over the years, I’ve collaborated with organizations such as Nespresso, Costa, and Dubai International Airport to implement practical and impactful environmental solutions. From optimizing waste management systems to leading awareness campaigns, I specialize in designing strategies that create real, lasting change.
My artwork—blending environmental advocacy with creative expression—has been collected by public figures including comedian Trevor Noah, environmentalist Adrian Grenier, entrepreneur Gary Vaynerchuk, radio host Kris Fade, Grammy Award-winning DJ Black Coffee, and NBA player Mason Plumlee. Through public speaking, podcasting, and art, I aim to inspire individuals and organizations to rethink their relationship with the environment.
With over a decade of international experience in design and project management across Australia, South Africa, the UK, India, and the UAE, I bring a unique mix of creativity and strategic insight to sustainability challenges. My global perspective allows me to collaborate across cultures, drive innovation, and empower others to make a meaningful impact.
As a lifelong learner and passionate advocate, I focus on practical, holistic solutions to environmental challenges—guided by systems thinking and a deep commitment to action. I hold a BA in Design, a postgraduate degree in Environmental Science, and a Master’s in Sustainable Design.