Sustainability Victoria’s Post

Many schools are already practising circularity – often without realising it. That was the standout insight from our recent Gippsland Teacher Environment Network gathering, where close to 20 educators came together to share what’s working and where they need support. Hosted by our ResourceSmart Schools program, the session sought to help teachers embed circular thinking across classrooms and school operations – making it easier to reduce waste, reuse materials and connect learning to real‑world resource recovery. The day included a visit to the Cowes Recycling Bank with Bass Coast Shire Council to see recovery in action, practical examples of circularity in practice from Victorian schools, plus perspectives on systems thinking from Compass Education and regeneration opportunities from Western Port Biosphere. 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘄𝗲 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗱:  🚩 Collaboration across the sector is essential for sharing resources effectively. 🚩 Educators want simpler ways to source quality second‑hand materials for teaching and learning. 🚩 When students feel less ownership over shared resources (e.g. stationery), care drops and waste rises due to factors like breakage.