OUTCOMES FOR SCHOOLS

 
 

Climate Action Schools
Logan Regional Pilot

Overview

The Climate Action Schools (CAS) Logan Regional Pilot was launched to promote comprehensive resource recovery systems in schools. The initiative aimed to reduce student waste to landfill, improve recycling quality, increase material redemption, and divert organic waste.

Program Focus

The program centered on refining and scaling CAS by developing prototype operational Sustainability Skills Centres (SSC). These centres serve as STEM training hubs, connecting students with industry and promoting behavioural change.

Partnership and Collaboration

In collaboration with Cummins ESG, the program integrated sustainability practices, resource recovery, and circular economy principles within Logan, Queensland, Australia. The pilot also included a professional development tour for teachers and cleaners, linking them directly with industry to enhance engagement and outcomes.

Participating Schools

  • Woodridge State High School

  • Shailer Park State High School.

Results at Woodridge State High School

Woodridge State High School established its Sustainability Skills Centre (SSC) within the first four months after signing The Pledge. The data highlights the following achievements:

  • Daily Resource Diversion: On average, 555 litres of recoverable resources were diverted from landfill each day, representing 53.3% of the total material sorted daily in the SSC.

  • 10c Cans and Bottles: Of the 555 litres diverted, 113 litres were 10c cans and bottles.

  • Waste Reduction: There was a 66% reduction in the number of general waste bins each week and a 42% reduction in the total number of bins requiring collection.

Projections for Woodridge State High School

For a 40-week (200-day) school year, the potential impact for Woodridge SHS, with 1,107 students, includes:

  • Resource Diversion: Diverting 111 cubic meters of resources from landfill to recycling and reuse.

  • Financial Redemption: Collecting and redeeming 10c bottles and cans worth $2,800.

  • Waste Bin Reduction: Reducing the total number of 660L general waste bins requiring collection by 320, while noting an additional 120 x 660L co-mingled recycling bins would need to be collected.

  • Student to Landfill Ratio: Achieving an annual student to landfill ratio of 0.088 cubic meters per student for materials sorted via the SSC.

Conclusion

The Climate Action Schools Logan Regional Pilot Program demonstrates significant progress in resource recovery and sustainability education. The initiative not only improves waste management practices but also fosters a culture of environmental responsibility among students and staff.