Carey launches sustainability plan: a bold step towards Net Zero

We are proud to announce the launch of Carey’s Sustainability Plan, a comprehensive roadmap that outlines our aspiration to achieving Net Zero emissions by 2035. This plan marks a significant milestone in Carey’s long-standing dedication to environmental responsibility, and we are excited to share this journey with our entire school community.

A blueprint for a sustainable future

The Sustainability Plan is not just a document: it is a call to action. It represents our strategic approach to reducing our environmental footprint across key areas such as energy, waste, water and transport, while also promoting biodiversity. The plan includes clear, measurable targets for reducing emissions, conserving resources and increasing recycling, alongside initiatives to embed sustainability into our operations, educational programs and community engagement.

This initiative aligns with our broader strategic priority of Sustainable Futures, and reflects the values of care, responsibility and stewardship that underpin our school ethos. From integrating renewable energy sources to engaging students in waste audits and conservation efforts, the plan ensures that sustainability becomes an integral part of life at Carey.

Collaborative efforts and data-driven goals

The development of the Sustainability Plan has been a collaborative effort, drawing on expertise from within our school and external partners. In particular, our partnership with CERES, an environmental centre and social enterprise based in Melbourne, has been invaluable. Together, we completed a Sustainability Baseline Report in 2023, providing critical data on our current environmental impact. This report highlighted areas for improvement, including electricity consumption, waste management and water usage, and laid the groundwork for our sustainability journey.

Engaging our community in the journey

Our aspiration to achieving Net Zero by 2035 is an ambitious one. It requires the active participation of our entire school community – students, staff, parents and alumni. The Sustainability Plan includes a strong focus on education and engagement, ensuring that everyone understands the critical role they play in this journey. We are integrating sustainability into our curriculum, encouraging students to take leadership roles in environmental initiatives, and fostering a culture of sustainability across our campuses.

We also recognise that sustainability extends beyond our school grounds. As a community, we can inspire and support one another to adopt more sustainable practices in our everyday lives. Whether it is reducing waste, conserving water or choosing sustainable transport options, every action makes a difference.

Looking ahead

The launch of Carey’s Sustainability Plan is just the beginning. As we move forward, we will provide regular updates on our progress through reports and community engagement events. Together, we will celebrate our successes, confront challenges and continue to innovate for a sustainable future.

We invite every member of the Carey community to join us on this important journey. By working together, we will achieve our sustainability goals and also create a legacy of environmental stewardship for generations to come.

Michelle Kafer
Director – Finance and Operations