February: Back to School, Back to Sustainability

February – Back to School, Back to Sustainability

February marks the return to school and work routines, a perfect opportunity to build simple, sustainable habits that last all year. This month focuses on reducing everyday waste from lunchboxes, classrooms, and workplaces, while protecting our local environment.

This Month’s Focus

  1. School and workplace waste reduction
  2. Waste-free lunchboxes
  3. Building long-term sustainable habits

 

Schools & Learning Communities

Rethink Waste Schools Program

Schools across Burnie can access free education resources through the Rethink Waste Schools Program, helping students learn practical ways to reduce waste and recycle correctly.

The program supports schools with:
  • Curriculum-linked waste education resources
  • School waste audits and action plans
  • Support for setting up recycling and organics systems
  • Practical learning that builds lifelong sustainable habits

 

Easy Actions for Schools, Workplaces & Families

  • Using reusable lunch containers, drink bottles, wraps, and cutlery
  • Choosing fresh foods and snacks with little or no packaging
  • Packing fruit, homemade snacks, and leftovers
  • Avoiding cling wrap and single-use plastic bags
  • Reusing jars, bags, and containers for storage and lunches
  • Labelling lunch items to reduce lost property and replacements
  • Passing on or reusing school uniforms, bags, and stationery

 

Waste Audits: Learn What You Throw Away

A waste audit helps schools and workplaces understand what waste they produce, what can be avoided or reused, and where recycling can be improved. February is a great time to start a simple audit and set goals for the year ahead.

Reuse Ideas

  • Jars and containers: storage, craft, pantry use
  • Reusable bags: lunch bags, library bags, sports gear
  • Uniforms: hand-me-downs, swaps, or donations
  • Office supplies: reuse folders, boxes, and stationery

 

Spotlight: World Wetlands Day – 2 February

Protecting Burnie’s wetlands starts with reducing waste.Burnie’s wetlands play an important role in supporting wildlife, improving water quality, and protecting our coastline. Litter and pollution can easily travel from streets and stormwater drains into wetlands and waterways.You can help by:
  • Choose reusable containers instead of disposable packaging
  • Keep rubbish secured so it doesn’t escape into drains
  • Dispose of waste correctly to prevent pollution from reaching wetlands
  • Healthy wetlands start with everyday choices made at home, school, and work.

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    Small habits make a big difference.
    Simple changes at school, work, and home help reduce waste, protect our wetlands, and keep Burnie clean and liveable.

     

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