1.3 Sustainability

Our Lunchbox Waste

Hi parents and carers! As you know, last week we conducted a classroom experiment to examine how much solid waste was produced from our lunchboxes. At the end of each day, we weighed the different types of waste, and recorded the results. At the end of the week, we compiled and analysed our data (see below) and discussed how we might reduce our lunchbox waste. By taking this approach to learning about waste, students were able to collaboratively explore many curriculum topics simultaneously. Working not only within a geography and sustainability context, but also mathematics, science and English, students were able to support each other with the various aspects of this task. This flexible system of learning allowed students to create connections in meaningful ways.

Why we are learning

During these lessons, students discovered that food waste and packaging were a significant contributor of our entire classroom waste production. We examined our data, discussing ways we could improve and next week will expand upon these ideas by creating solutions we can implement locally, nationally and even globally. By taking a holistic approach to sustainability, children are given the greatest opportunity to achieve knowledge and skills outcomes. This learning style encourages active citizenship and helps students understand how decisions made in life can affect future generations. The humanities and social sciences area of this topic provides children the ability to question, think critically, solve problems, communicate effectively, make decisions and adapt to change. 

How we are learning

While these lessons do require high teacher direction with the use of scales equipment and interpreting data, the focus is very much student-centred and collaborative. As students work together to investigate our classroom waste, they exchange ideas and build upon a collective knowledge base. By working together in a social environment, children develop confidence in their abilities and are more capable of achieving their learning goals. We have created a classroom environment based on respect and understanding that allows children to feel comfortable in a collaborative learning context, as this is an important aspect of successful social learning. Active teaching and learning through dynamic experiences gives students the opportunity to build and apply responsibility in the classroom and beyond. 

Rethink your lunchbox!

After collecting the data, our class offered suggestions as to how we might reduce our waste and ecological footprint. We came up with these ideas:

• Use drink bottles that can be refilled, as opposed to one-use recyclable drink bottles
• Create a class/school compost bin for our fruit, vegetable and other waste
• Enforce a ‘nude foods’ program – no plastic or wrappers on our food
• Don’t over pack lunchboxes to avoid food wastage 

As the school and home are two of the most important areas of a child’s life, creating strong connections between the two are fundamental in supporting student learning outcomes. We welcome your input as parents to support your child in their passionate sustainability conquest.