The City of Stonnington recognised and celebrated this year's Environmental Champions at an online graduation ceremony held on Thursday 2 December.
The three month program, now in its second year, aims to build the capacity of our community by improving knowledge, skills and confidence for people to become local environmental leaders who help create a more sustainable city and take climate action.
This year's 19 participants were supported to develop ideas into projects and test them in the real world. Workshops on collaboration, communication and resourcing were run to support project development, and a range of speakers from Council, industry and the wider community were invited to provide advice. Including a number of Champions from 2020 who have continued to do great things for the community.
The graduation event was an opportunity to recognise the achievements and commitment of the Champions who, despite restrictions throughout their program, were able to develop strong connections, discuss ideas and progress their projects.
Some of this year's projects were focused on building community connections, recycling, reusing and repurposing waste, understanding and appreciating native birdlife and replanting to boost biodiversity.
City of Stonnington Mayor Cr Jami Klisaris is delighted to recognise this year's Environmental Champions who have stepped up to join Council in taking climate action.
"We all play a vital role in responding to the climate emergency and the Environmental Champions Program is one of the many ways Council and the community are working together to support change, now and for the future.
"It's wonderful to see so many people taking a leadership role within our community at time when more than ever, action speaks louder than words," Cr. Klisaris said.
Ending with some final reflections and commendations, the ceremony concluded with many participants saying how much they enjoyed the experience, the valuable connections made, and how much they look forward to further developing their projects in 2022.
