The Human Touch: Why People Still Outperform AI in Recycling, and AI's Thirsty Secret

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.

Foundation Partners: Cummins Leads the Way to a Circular Future

Climate Action SchoolsShan Cox18 September 2025Future Forge, Industry 6.0, Cummins, Sustainability Programs, ESG, Circular Economy, LEAN, Workforce Development, Climate Action Schools, Thank You PartnersComment

Community Powering a Sustainable Future: Woodridge State High and Industry 6.0 in Action

Climate Action SchoolsShan Cox18 September 2025Industry 6.0, Functional Sustainability, Circular Economy in Schools, Resource recovery, Renewable Energy, Community collaboration, Industry Partnership, QLD Gaskets, Waste Recycling Industries QldComment

Beyond the Doughnut: Finding Our Sweet Spot for People and Planet

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?

A Business Manager’s Perspective: The Climate Action Schools Advantage

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.

Woodridge SHS Year 10s: Global Citizens Driving Local Change

Our Vision in Action: The Year 10 student pilot program at Woodridge SHS powerfully embodies Climate Action Schools' vision of "Redesigning Success: People and planet, thriving together," by empowering students to connect global challenges with local action.

Woodridge SHS Vision/Values: Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow. Empowered, Resilient and World Changing

Shailer Park SHS: Innovating Upstream for a Safer, Smarter Future

Our Vision in Action: Shailer Park SHS exemplifies Climate Action Schools' vision of "Redesigning Success: People and planet, thriving together," by fostering teamwork and innovation for a sustainable future. Principal Megan Herbert calls us a ‘critical support partner”.

Shailer Park SHS Vision/Values: Excellence in Learning and Life, Purpose – Inspiring lifelong learners to succeed in a world of opportunities.

Woodridge SHS: From Waste to Workforce - A Journey of Transformation

Our Vision in Action: Woodridge State High School truly embodies Climate Action Schools' vision of "Redesigning Success: People and planet, thriving together," by transforming waste into opportunity and empowering its students.

Woodridge SHS Vision/Values: Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow. Empowered, Resilient and World Changing

Logan Leads the Way: Pioneering a Sustainable Future in Queensland Schools

Our Vision in Action: This story embodies Climate Action Schools' vision of "Redesigning Success: People and planet, thriving together," showcasing how functional sustainability can drive profound change.

The Opportunity: In 2024, Climate Action Schools launched its Logan Regional Pilot Program to address critical challenges in school waste management. The goal was clear: transform schools into hubs of functional sustainability, reduce landfill waste, and create tangible pathways to industry.

Climate Action NOT Climate Change

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.

That's a wrap!

Pilot testing Year 10 program at Woodridge SHS

Woodridge SHS Year 9/10 Pilot: Young Leaders Drive Real Change!

At Climate Action Schools, we believe in Redesigning Success: People and planet, thriving together. This vision truly came alive during our recent pilot program with Year 9 and 10 students at Woodridge State High School.

These incredible young leaders embarked on a journey that transformed their understanding of sustainability from theory to tangible action.

Highly Commended for Environmental Innovation of the Year

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:

Climate Action Schools: The Blueprint for Industry 6.0

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: