✅ Sorting and processing tricky-to-recycle items ✅ Learning about circular economy solutions ✅ Meeting like-minded sustainability champions ✅ Making a tangible impact on reducing waste in Australia Whether you're new to recycling or a seasoned sustainability advocate, everyone is welcome! No prior experience is required—just bring your enthusiasm and a willingness to help. Spots are limited, so be sure to secure yours today!

An inspiring free event celebrating sustainability and showcasing practical, affordable ways you can make a difference. Highlights include: - 10-Minute Toolbox Talks, where experts in tech, energy efficiency and architecture share their unique approaches to sustainability and prepare you to do the same. - Eye-opening panel discussions with pioneers in the fields of science, energy and environment. - Hands-on workshops teaching everyday skills that can help you save the planet and your bank balance!

A joint presentation from Atelier 10, Robert Bird Group, and SMEC, on driving building design towards absolute zero carbon. The difference between net vs absolute zero and operational vs embodied carbon will be reviewed, along with the industry’s current capabilities. Operational absolute zero carbon is achievable, but embodied carbon will be a challenge. The framework of “use less stuff” and certification pathways that are driving change will be discussed along with supportive case studies.

Join us for an inspiring series of lighting talks about creative research projects from members of the UTS Visualisation Institute. Projects include live community storytelling events where place-based narratives about climate change range from cheeky to devastating; an internship program where students and industry mentors work on community-led climate action projects; a housing prototype that aims to preserve and restore urban pollinator communities; a collaboration between a fashion designer and choreographer exploring metamorphosis and transformation in living systems. After the short talks, dive deeper into these fascinating initiatives in a networking session designed to spark conversations and inspire new collaborations. Connect directly with the researchers, designers, and architects behind the projects, and explore how creative approaches can help shape a more sustainable future. Don't miss this dynamic event where creative research meets environmental impact.

Back in 2015 on the fringes of the Paris COP, Kumi Naidoo (then ED of Greenpeace International) and Richard Denniss, ED of the Australia Institute were courting countries to sign on to a moratorium on new coal mines. Now in 2025, in part frustrated by the slow movement of the formal COP process, both have become involved in the campaign for a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty. Join Kumi and Richard for a fireside chat that peeks behind the curtain at a decade of international diplomatic work to move the world away from fossil fuels, and what comes next Kumi Naidoo, is the President of the Fossil Fuel Treaty. Kumi also holds the position of Distinguished visiting lecturer at Stanford University’s Center for Democracy, Development and the Rule of Law, and is a Professor of Practice at the Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University. Kumi has authored and co-authored numerous books, the most recent being Letters To My Mother (2022), a personal and professional memoir that won the HSS 2023 non-fiction award by the National Institute Humanities and Social Sciences. His dedication to democracy and justice led to notable international roles, including being the first person from the global South to lead Greenpeace International as Executive Director from 2009 to 2016. He later served as the Secretary General of Amnesty International from 2018 to 2020. Dr Richard Denniss is the executive Director of the Australia Institute, and a prominent Australian economist, author and public policy commentator, and has spent the last twenty years moving between policy-focused roles in academia, federal politics and think-tanks. He was also a Lecturer in Economics at the university of Newcastle and former Associate Professor in the Crawford School of Public Policy at ANU. He is a regular contributor to The Monthly and the author of several books including: Econobabble, Curing Affluenza and Dead Right: How Neoliberalism Ate Itself and What Comes Next?

NSW generates more than 891,000 tonnes of plastic waste each year, with only 14% being recycled. The remaining 86% ends up in landfill or the environment where it travels into waterways. By 2050, it’s estimated there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish. ​ ​ Over two days, the NSW Environment Protection Authority is teaming up with the Ocean Lovers Festival to host giant sculptures of commonly littered items such as plastic water bottles and coffee cups. They stand next to statues of some of our most beloved marine animals including pelicans and fish, to educate festival attendees and those around Darling Harbour about the deadly impact of litter. ​ ​ This ‘Don’t be a Tosser!’ event has been created by the NSW Environment Protection Authority and is funded by the Marine Estate Management Authority. ​ ​It’s free to view the event.

Talking Boldly by B Local Sydney is a networking event for changemakers, industry leaders, and innovators ready to spark bold climate action, inspire change, and design solutions for a more resilient future. As climate challenges evolve, so must our approach—this event ignites conversations on how we can adapt, collaborate, and push boundaries to drive real impact. The more we share, the faster we move—and the quicker we innovate.

Secondary school students are invited to a half-day expo on Friday, March 14, 2025 to see science displays, and listen to and meet marine scientists and course leads from participating universities and other ocean institutions like the conservationists from SeaLife: ​ - Hear about study options in science, particularly marine-related; - Ask questions of the scientists and faculty staff; - Be inspired by how past science students have used their studies in their work; -See how science helps to restore nature and support our ocean. ​

Visit the GoBoat showcase at Darling Harbour to find out how you can enjoy an unforgettable day on the water, connect with their environmentally-friendly ethos, and explore the future of sustainable boating. Lisa will be showcasing her yacht and advocating for climate action at the Darling Harbour weekend as part of the BIA Sustainable Boating Showcase, sharing her mission to protect our oceans and drive meaningful change.

Inspired by the work of Sydney-based "artivist" Marina DeBris, this eye-opening event highlights the environmental impact of marine debris. Through provocative, playful, and sometimes shocking designs, the show transforms discarded beach waste into high-fashion statements. From gowns adorned with plastic utensils to dresses crafted from polystyrene containers, each piece challenges audiences to reconsider our throwaway culture.

The global shift to a just, resilient, and regenerative future is unstoppable. Political shifts and regulatory changes can create uncertainty. But the reality is that markets, industries, and communities are already driving the transition forward, and no single leader or government can reverse this momentum. Investment in clean energy is at record highs, major economies are embedding climate action into their growth strategies, and technological advancements are making decarbonisation more efficient and accessible than ever. Policy decisions will shape the speed and fairness of this transition, but they won’t stop it. This event will explore how climate action continues to accelerate despite political shifts, why systemic approaches ensure long-term progress, and what Australia must do to stay at the forefront of this transformation. Key Themes: The resilience of global climate action amid shifting regulatory landscapes. How market forces and industrial momentum are accelerating the transition. Australia’s role in shaping climate solutions and maintaining policy consistency. Why systemic approaches are essential to overcoming barriers and scaling impact.

Climate action doesn’t mean quitting your job—it means using it. Join WorkforClimate’s Lucy Piper and a panel of corporate changemakers who’ve driven real impact from within. Hear how everyday employees have challenged the status quo, influenced key decisions, and turned their roles into platforms for climate leadership—and how you can too. Walk away with fresh ideas, actionable strategies, real-world inspiration, and a network to support you. Plus, get your burning questions answered in our live Q&A.

In 2021, Tim Hodgson and his family made a pledge at the kitchen table - the Hodgson household would be net zero by 2025. With a background in sport, marketing and impact businesses, this was a new challenge. The resulting simple plan was stuck on the kitchen fridge and a new business was born, to help educate and empower employees to do the same. At this workshsop, Tim will talk through his learnings, share stories and data from his work with My Net Zero, and help everyone start to build their own plan to Net Zero. Yes, paper, pen, scissors on the table, an open discussion, and tips on marketplace providers that can help us shift from intent to action. And ultimately a personal plan for everyone to place on their fridge.

Through presentations, performances and discussions, we’ll chart a new path forward on seven big ideas: 1. Polluters Out, People In 2. First Nations Leadership 3. Pacific-Led Agenda 4. Mass Movement Power 5. Broad, uniting public support 6. Asia-Pacific Energy Transformation 7. Global fossil fuel phase-out and just transition. Speakers: Larissa Baldwin-Roberts, Common Threads Joseph Sikulu, Pacific Climate Warriors Sindra Sharma, Pacific Islands Climate Action Network Kathryn McCallum, Climate Action Network Australia

Is circular fashion here to stay? As the stigma of second-hand begins to fade and technological innovation advances the fashion industry, will our youngest generations transform how we consume fashion to create a better future? And what’s the impact of digital fashion? While ultra-fast fashion hauls dominate social media, and the global fashion industry generates textile waste and toxic chemicals at unfathomable levels, the circular fashion industry is growing at a faster rate than new retail. This emerging trend may be here to stay thanks to climate-aware younger generations and their more eco-conscious choices. Join this discussion to hear from industry experts and leaders exploring the true environmental cost of fast fashion, and how younger generations will lead a sustainable fashion revolution.

Join us for a panel discussion focused on action, empowering entrepreneurs and innovators with insights to launch, grow, and fund climate solutions. Hear from experienced founders, investors, and industry leaders as they share lessons and practical advice to turn bold ideas into real-world impact. Whether you’re starting out or scaling up, this event offers valuable perspectives, connections, and inspiration to take your climate solution further.

We explore the importance of care for one’s self to build resilience for the long term, in recognition that the emotional and psycho-social impacts are difficult and demanding. We offer a chance for people to talk and listen to each other to help build greater connection, understanding and resilience.

As dusk falls, our expert guides will lead you through quiet trails, using high-powered spotlights to reveal the fascinating animals that come to life after dark. From elusive owls and mysterious marsupials to microbats and frogs. Perfect for nature lovers, this unique experience offers a rare opportunity to learn more about our local wildlife. Don't miss out on the chance to witness the magic of the night! - Bookings essential ($10 per adult). Book online: https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/whats-on/night-spotlight-tour-manly-dam - Please wear sturdy shoes, dress appropriately for the weather at night, and bring a water bottle. - Park outside the Gate.

As dusk falls, our expert guides will lead you through quiet trails, using high-powered spotlights to reveal the fascinating animals that come to life after dark. From elusive owls and mysterious marsupials to microbats and frogs. Perfect for nature lovers, this unique experience offers a rare opportunity to learn more about our local wildlife. Don't miss out on the chance to witness the magic of the night! - Bookings essential ($10 per adult). Book online: https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/whats-on/night-spotlight-tour-manly-dam - Please wear sturdy shoes, dress appropriately for the weather at night, and bring a water bottle. - Park outside the Gate.

With energy bills rising and solar becoming more affordable than ever, there's never been a better time to consider solar power to reduce your energy bills and also save money by improving energy efficiency around your home or workplace. Have a chat with Council's sustainability team and learn about solar and battery installation, energy efficiency, electrification, good design principles, EV charging, and sustainability rebates and incentives.