Rather than focusing exclusively on large-scale interventions or systemic change, which remain critical, Sustainable September invites us to consider the cumulative value of individual habits.

Our focus is on the idea that meaningful change often begins with a single step. Whether it is repairing an item rather than replacing it, planting a tree, attending a community workshop, or making a conscious shift toward a more sustainable product or practice, these actions matter.

Sustainability can be advanced through small, everyday actions that are easy to adopt and maintain. When integrated into routine campus life, these behaviours, though modest in isolation, contribute meaningfully to collective sustainability outcomes and help embed a culture of environmental responsibility. 

By making conscious choices in how we consume, dispose, conserve, and participate, we can each play a role in supporting a more sustainable future.

Some simple ways to start include:

• Downloading the Recycle Right app, so you always know what goes where.

• Using the dedicated recycling bins for hard-to-recycle items.

• Bringing your own cup or container to reduce single-use waste.

• Volunteering for tree planting, clean-up or weeding.

• Talking advantage of the WA $150 Tree Rebate program and planting your own tree.

• Switching off lights and monitors when not in use.

• Going digital when you can and skipping the printouts.

• Consider your digital footprint and use of AI. 

Sustainability is not solely about grand gestures. It is equally about consistency, awareness, and the willingness to begin.

Each week during Sustainable September presents a fresh opportunity to dive into dynamic, hands-on activities that showcase how small, individual actions can collectively spark meaningful environmental change. Whether you're rolling up your sleeves at a repair workshop, getting creative with upcycled materials, or planting native species to restore local ecosystems, every moment is designed to inspire and empower.

From stitching torn garments to cultivating green spaces, encountering wildlife like the majestic Black Cockatoo, or joining guided tours of Murdoch’s sustainability initiatives, there’s something for everyone to explore, connect with, and carry forward into everyday life. These experiences not only build practical skills but also deepen your connection to Country and community, making sustainability feel tangible, personal, and achievable.

Week 1

• Tues 2 September — ‘Know your campus’ sustainability tour

  • Register to enjoy a guided tour and discover the hidden green features around campus and learn how small design choices are making an impact.

• Thurs 11 September — sustainability themed Guild Markets

  • Visit the Kaarakin Conservation stall, to meet one of their Bird Education Officers and an ambassador black cockatoo, or watch the film ‘Black Cockatoo Crisis’ to explore our latest research and its conservation impact.

• Thurs 11 September — Share and Repair Café 

  • This project is part of the 2025 Student as Change Agent recipient, Linda Tammen and is completely run by volunteers. Book your spot, gather your garments and come and meet the wonderful women making it happen.

• Visit the Sustainability Office stall to meet the team and learn about our work on campus.

• Book your free bike safety check with our partners from People on Bicycles. 

• Mon 15 September — Gardening in Small Spaces

  • Come on down to The Den and learn from experienced educator Peg Davies how to create an instant garden bed made from re-purposed materials. With limited tickets, make sure you save your spot.

• Mon 22 September — Making Beeswax Wraps

  • This hands-on session will teach you how to make your own reusable wrap and explore other options to single-use plastic. There are limited staff tickets. Register today.

• Thurs 25 September — Sustainability Collective turns one

  • Celebrate with us! Join the Sustainability Collective as we mark our one-year anniversary with a special lunch from 12–1pm at The Tavern. Everyone passionate about making a difference is warmly invited to join the festivities. No booking required but you may like to join the Teams site to stay up to date.

Did you get to meet the Black Cockatoo, attend one of our workshops, or connect with one of our sustainability champions? We’d love to hear about your experience!

Share your stories and photos with us on Viva Engage and don’t forget to:

• Post in the Sustainability community.
• Use the tag #SustainableSeptember so others can easily find and follow your updates.

Let’s celebrate the moments that make this month meaningful and inspire each other to keep taking small steps toward sustainability.