The school’s Sustainability Council, led by Prefect Kate Wackrow alongside deputies Madeleine Christiansen and Julie Qian, is at the forefront of promoting responsible consumption and fostering a culture of environmental stewardship.
“This year, the Dio Sustainability Council has a focus on decreasing the consumption of our students and teachers through promoting good shopping habits,” says Kate Wackrow. “The rise of fast fashion has significantly contributed to environmental degradation – a staggering 85% of all textiles end up in landfill each year and there is currently enough clothing on Earth to clothe the next six generations. Now is the time to start thinking about what and how much we buy.”
The council’s key message for 2025 is clear: rethink consumption. Through initiatives encouraging second-hand shopping, repurposing clothing, and making conscious, considered purchases, students are empowered to create rather than consume. “The idea of creating rather than consuming is something I am very eager to share,” Kate adds. “Handmade items, repairs, repurposing, and upcycling are great ways to bring new life to pre-loved items, add character and personality, and help save our beautiful planet.”
Sustainability Traditions Continue
The school continues to uphold successful sustainability programs from previous years, including Dio Thrifts, a project run jointly with the Ethics Council. This event gives students a tangible way to understand the impact of buying second-hand while allowing them to find new treasures among pre-loved items.
The Sustainability Cup, a well-established house competition, remains a highlight of the school year. This initiative encourages students to actively participate in sustainable practices, fostering a sense of responsibility and friendly rivalry among the school houses.
New Initiatives for 2025
While maintaining these traditions, the council has also introduced fresh initiatives this year aimed at further embedding sustainability into school life. One exciting new project is the Nature Photography Competition, in collaboration with the Arts Council. “Students are encouraged to get out into nature, explore the world around them, take photographs, and potentially win a prize,” explains Kate. This initiative not only fosters a deeper appreciation for the environment but also highlights the importance of preserving natural beauty.
Another forward-thinking project aligns sustainability with student events. Recognising the environmental impact of one-time-use formal wear, the Sustainability Council is working with the Ball Council to promote renting and borrowing dresses for the school ball. “It’s a fantastic way to reduce waste and rethink our shopping habits when it comes to special occasions,” says Kate.
Passion for the Planet
Kate Wackrow’s commitment to sustainability is deeply personal. “I am passionate about sustainability because I am passionate about our planet. In Aotearoa, we have an incredible natural environment that I have had the privilege of experiencing as I’ve grown up. I want to preserve these experiences for future generations. The idea of kaitiakitanga (guardianship) is very important to me, and I believe that it is crucial to help the environment as it helps us.”
She highlights how sustainability touches every aspect of life and how the student council serves as a platform to educate and engage the wider Dio community. “Sustainability as a concept is so multi-faceted and ties into everything that we do. The student council is a way to show people all of these sides and the impact they can make. It lets us reach out not only to students but also to teachers, parents, and the wider Diocesan community.”
Sustainability at Dio: A School-Wide Commitment
The importance of sustainability at Diocesan extends beyond student-led initiatives. Teacher-in-charge of sustainability, Jacinda Andrews, explains: “Sustainability at Diocesan aims to foster a culture of environmental, social, and economic responsibility to minimise our ecological footprint and promote long-term sustainable habits in our community.”
She acknowledges the crucial role that students play in leading these efforts. “Students are at the heart of our sustainability focus. The Sustainability Council is made up of passionate students from Years 7 to 13. We are very proud that for the third year in a row, our Sustainability Prefect has been in the council for the last few years. This has ensured consistency in the council’s initiatives.”
Deputy Prefect Madeleine Christiansen, who has been involved in the council since Year 7, is an example of how long-term commitment can drive meaningful change. Along with Julie Qian, she works alongside Kate to inspire their peers and implement effective sustainability programs.
“By embedding sustainability into every aspect of the school experience, students learn to think critically about their impact on the world and take meaningful action to create a sustainable future,” says Ms. Andrews.
A Vision for the Future
The sustainability efforts at Diocesan reflect a growing global awareness of the need for responsible consumption and environmental stewardship. By instilling these values in students at a young age, the school is shaping the next generation of change-makers who will continue to advocate for a sustainable future.
“We are unbelievably excited to be leading the Sustainability Council this year,” says Kate. “Madeleine, Julie, and I are eager to share our love for the planet with the rest of Dio and inspire meaningful change within our community.”
Through innovation, tradition, and passionate leadership, Diocesan School for Girls continues to be a champion of sustainability, proving that even small actions can lead to a significant and lasting impact.
