Edmund Rice College recently hosted a virtual ECO Sustainability Conference that had secondary students zooming in from across the Wollongong diocese and beyond.

The conference was an opportunity for students to gather together virtually and share ideas and sustainability actions as well as learn a bit more about some of the environmental challenges we face and how we can respond in a positive way to make a difference.

The students from ERC with teacher Diane Schodde, capably organised, led and emceed the day. The CEDoW schools that joined in were: Holy Spirit Bellambi, St Joseph's Albion Park, St John's Nowra, John Therry Rosemeadow, Magdalene Narellan, St Francis Edmondson Park and Corpus Christi Oak Flats.

Each school was invited to give a short presentation about some of the issues they have with sustainability as well as participate in workshops and discussions. There was also a presentation from Ruby Tavener of Oz Green, Eco Careers advice and the opportunity for students to plan environmental action back at their school.

The highlight of the Conference was perhaps the presentation from Costa Georgiadis – Environmental Educator, Logie winner and Host of Gardening Australia. Costa through his engaging and entertaining style shared sustainable and practical ways students can make a real difference at their own school and the Q & A that followed was informative and worthwhile.

We look forward to next year's ERC ECO Sustainability Conference - hopefully in a post COVID world where we can all meet to explore environmental issues face to face.