Schools invited to join sustainability program

SCHOOLS in and around Heathcote are being invited to join an award-winning free program aimed at supporting sustainability across school facilities, the curriculum and community.

The program from Sustainabilty Victoria will aim to reduce resource use and save money.

More than 1600 schools have participated in the ResourceSmart School scheme since 2008, saving more than $68 million on bills.

Five million trees have been planted, 170,000 cubic metres of waste diverted from landfill, 1.9 million kilolitres of water saved, and more than 110,000 tonnes of CO2 greenhouse gas emissions cut.

ResourceSmart School facilitator for Loddon Mallee Emily Condon said schools joining the program will learn, practice and share ways to integrate sustainability.

They will have access to a free online portal, professional development and teaching resources.

“As the local ResourceSmart Schools Facilitator, I provide personal support to schools and offer sustainability sessions online and face-to-face for the whole school community,” she said. “As well as generating savings on utility bills and enhancing biodiversity, the ResourceSmart Schools program provides student leadership opportunities, supports student and community wellbeing, and enables connections with other schools, local organisations and community groups.”

Schools are recognised and rewarded through sustainability certification. Stars are obtained at completion of modules and meeting benchmarks for resource use.

Schools can progress at their own pace from one star up to five stars and move towards becoming a Leadership School.

Participating schools are eligible to enter the ResourceSmart Schools Awards.

“The ResourceSmart Schools Awards are an opportunity to acknowledge the amazing sustainability initiatives being implemented in Victorian schools and the people behind them,” said Ms Condon. “I encourage all schools to join the ResourceSmart Schools program. Together we can build a future we need.”

For more information visit sustainability.vic.gov.au