In 2006, Flinders College achieved finalist status in the Banksia Environmental Awards for an innovative irrigation system, which utilises recycled water to irrigate the sports oval. This irrigation system has been extended around the school grounds, which accounts for the lush green areas students enjoy. Since the implementation of the irrigation system, we have continued to focus on raising the awareness of sustainability at Flinders College. Currently, all students in Year 8 complete a core subject, Sustainability, for the duration of the year. It is expected that students completing this course will have a good understanding of the human impact on the environment and be equipped to reduce their environmental footprint.

For the past 3 years, students in both primary and secondary have participated in Planet Ark Tree Day. This has resulted in over 150 native trees and shrubs being planted across the Carrum Downs Campus. It is expected that approximately 100 new trees and shrubs will be planted each year.

A key aspect of sustainability at Flinders College is student leadership. The Environmental Leadership Team (ELT) is composed of students and staff and is the driving force behind initiatives run at the school. In 2007 students organised a Showerhead Exchange Program and approximately 100 showerheads were exchanged during the campaign. The Environmental Leadership Team also hosted an Environmental Summit, which saw students from around 5 local schools meet and listen to guest speakers and discuss relevant issues.

In 2007, Flinders College received ‘Water! Learn it! Live It!’ accreditation from South East Water and we are currently working on ‘CERES 5-Star Sustainable Schools’ accreditation. Minimising our impact on the environment is a priority at Flinders College and we are continually looking for new ways to raise awareness and encourage positive change.