Eco Heroes win Green Impact Australasia Award

Green Impact team Eco Heroes from the University of Melbourne’s Early Learning Centre were announced as winners in the Engagement Innovators category at the online awards ceremony on Thursday 2 July.

The Engagement Innovation Award is given to a Green Impact team that demonstrates leadership in engagement and positive change at their institution.

In 2019, Eco Heroes organised an action week at the Early Learning Centre, where they engaged children, teachers and families in a number of environmental initiatives. Activities included ride or walk mornings, local community rubbish collections, planting experiences, a nude food campaign, mindful nature drawing, and a clothing and book swap.

Through hosting this week, Eco Heroes were successful in increasing sustainable actions at the centre by encouraging their staff and families to get involved.

Pictured: Children's drawings and activities completed as art of the action week organised at the Early Learning Centre.

Team lead and Early Childhood Teacher at the ELC, Harriet Deans, said that, although the year has been challenging, the team has continued to find innovative ways to engage in the Green Impact program.

‘We hope this award inspires others to become involved in the program and to recognise the importance of child voice in matters that affect them now and into future.’

As part of the award, Eco Heroes will receive a donation on their behalf to the Australian Koala Foundation with their name added to the Honour Wall at the Foundation's field research station in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.

The University’s Project Assistant George He was also a finalist in the Student Champion category.

The Green Impact Australasia Awards are an opportunity for institutions who implement Green Impact to put forward their most inspiring staff and students to get additional recognition for their achievements within the program. We congratulate all finalists and award winners on their remarkable work to improve the sustainability of their institution.

To find out more about how you can get involved in the University of Melbourne's program, visit Green Impact.