Sustainability at Camberwell Grammar

Camberwell Grammar School is strongly committed to sustainability, reflected in its Strategic Plan priority: Conducting Sustainable and Secure Operations. The Net Zero by 2030 initiative sets clear targets to reduce consumption and emissions across electricity, gas, water, transport, and landfill. It also aims to increase performance in recycling, active transport, biodiversity, and sustainable purchasing. These efforts engage the entire school community through both operational practices and curriculum programs.

Awards and Certification

  • Sustainability Victoria - Campus Infrastructure and Operations School of the Year 2024 FINALIST
  • The Educator - Top 20 Most Sustainable Australian Schools 2024
  • Resource Smart Schools - 2 Star School (Core and Biodiversity) 2024

'As a school, we recognise our responsibility to lead with integrity and optimism in the face of global challenges. Our target of Net Zero emissions by 2030 reflects our commitment to responsible leadership and our desire for lasting, positive change.' 
Ben Jeacocke, Principal

Net Zero Carbon Emissions

Achieving Net Zero by 2030 means balancing carbon emissions produced with those removed from the atmosphere. This journey will reduce resource consumption and costs, improve operational efficiency, and promote sustainable use of goods and services. It also aims to educate and empower students and staff to become responsible global citizens, ensuring a more sustainable future.

Waste - While this sector is a challenge, progress to reduce landfill waste from 2022 (Baseline year) was achieved and recycling rates are increasing each year.

Electricity – Grid and Solar - CGS uses 100% renewable energy from its 888-kWh solar system and Engie Green Power. Solar generation is traded as LGCs and reported. Electricity usage remains high, with ongoing efforts to reduce consumption.

Gas - Gas remains on track to perform to its annual target. The school continues to investigate electrification options to transition away from gas.

Water - Consumption is rising due to a warming climate. The school is addressing this by upgrading infrastructure and integrating water education into the curriculum.

Transport - Road transport has increased but remains within the annual target. Air transport emissions are offset through Greenfleet. Facilities for electric vehicles and active transport have been enhanced, with further improvements under review.

Purchasing & Procurement - Single-use packaging in the cafeteria has been successfully reduced. Paper purchasing is improving but remains a challenge in meeting annual targets.

Biodiversity - The school is enhancing biodiversity by expanding native habitats and plantings to meet annual targets. Community engagement is increasing through various student-led projects.

A Snapshot of Student Involvement

  • Towards 2050 Student Group (Year 6-12) – projects, events and activities

  • Kingussie Garden Group (Year 6-12) – gardening, propagation and maintenance

  • Beekeeping Group (Year 6-12) – assist beekeeper in inspection and harvesting

  • Fix the News Podcasting (Years 10 & 11) – positive news to unpack and share

  • Junior School Green Ninjas (Prep-Year 5) – gardening and grounds exploration.


A Snapshot of Community Involvement

  • Open Day: zero landfill waste event for 2,000 visitors and working with Friends of Groups to replace single-use items with reusable and recycled items

  • EV charging stations for visitors

  • Contractor and Visitor Online induction: includes sustainability information on waste streams and Net Zero initiatives

  • Functions request form includes sustainability information for a sustainable event.