We believe that every small change has ripple effects. This is where we share what’s working—as schools recover resources, embed functional sustainability methods, win awards, and show us that education can be part of the solution. Let these updates spark something in your school, inspire your team, and show how a better future begins today.
Australia's new Circular Economy Framework is here, and it's a game-changer. It envisions a future where waste is a resource, value is kept in play, and our economy thrives in harmony with the planet. But how do we get there? At Climate Action Schools, we believe the journey starts in our schools, with our students.
Imagine a school where 75% of resources are diverted from landfill, where recycling is decontaminated, and organics are recovered daily. This isn't a dream; it's the reality in our partner schools, thanks to our unique program.
In the quest for a more sustainable future, technology often promises revolutionary solutions. Artificial intelligence (AI) is frequently touted as the answer to many of our environmental challenges, including improving efficiency in resource recovery and recycling facilities. However, when it comes to the intricate task of sorting materials on a picking line, human workers currently hold a significant advantage. What's more, the very AI systems designed to help us often come with a hidden environmental cost: vast amounts of water.
In the journey towards Industry 6.0, true leadership means integrating sustainability into the very core of your business. We want to give a massive shout-out to Cummins, our foundation partner, who exemplifies this vision and has been instrumental in the inception and growth of Climate Action Schools.
At Climate Action Schools, we believe in fostering a holistic approach to sustainability, understanding that our local actions contribute to a global vision. This vision extends beyond the classroom, embracing a collaborative 'ecosystem' where industry, community, and education unite. Recently, Woodridge State High School became a vibrant example of this philosophy, hosting a special working bee that showcased the power of collective effort in driving Industry 6.0 sustainability.
We all love a good doughnut, right? But what if a doughnut could also be a blueprint for a thriving, sustainable future? Enter "Donut Economics" – a revolutionary idea that's changing how we think about our economy and our planet.
Developed by economist Kate Raworth, Donut Economics isn't about cutting back; it's about finding a "sweet spot" where everyone can flourish without trashing our home.
So, What's in the Donut?
As the Business Manager at Woodridge State High School, I am always on the lookout to save operational cost for the school and to help facilitate student learning in a practical, real world experience. I want to share our positive experience with a program called Climate Action Schools.
Like many schools, managing waste effectively and controlling associated costs has always been a challenge. We recently implemented the Climate Action Schools program, which provides a practical, system-based approach to resource recovery right here at school.
Beyond the Hype: Practical Sustainability for a Thriving Future
At Climate Action Schools, we often hear the questions: "Does it really make a difference?" or "Aren't you just brainwashing kids?" Our answer is clear: We teach functional sustainability, not ideology. We're not climate change activists; we're empowering schools and students with practical tools that create tangible, measurable impact, right here, right now.
Our program focuses on functional sustainability – applying industry-proven methodologies like LEAN to everyday school operations. This means students learn Take 5 personal safety, 5S organization, 8 Wastes identification, 5 Whys analysis, and Fishbone problem-solving. These aren't abstract concepts; they are essential skills used by major industries worldwide, from manufacturing to resource recovery.
And the difference? It's undeniable. Our partner schools are diverting up to 75% of resources from landfill, achieving 65% reductions in waste costs, and generating income through the circular economy. This isn't just good for the planet; it's smart economics and builds stronger communities.
We’re proud to share that Climate Action Schools has been awarded Highly Commended for Environmental Innovation of the Year at the 2025 WRIQ Industry Awards.
This recognition is more than a plaque on the wall — it’s a celebration of what can happen when schools, students, and communities come together to imagine a better way forward. At the heart of our Logan Pilot Program were young people learning to think differently, act boldly, and take responsibility for the world they are shaping.
The results speak for themselves:
Industry 6.0 envisions a highly intelligent, fully circular, human-augmented, and ethically driven manufacturing ecosystem, deeply integrated with society and the environment. Climate Action Schools (CAS) is not just aligned with this future; it's actively cultivating the very foundations and human capabilities required to build it.
Here's why CAS is a perfect fit for Industry 6.0:
To our incredible schools, valued industry partners, dedicated volunteers, visionary leaders, and passionate student ambassadors – Welcome!
This newsletter is a testament to our collective commitment, designed to inspire and empower every step of your sustainability journey.
At Climate Action Schools, we live our vision daily: Redesigning Success: People + planet; thriving together.