Program

Join us on Saturday 14th September at Fed Square, Melbourne for our annual Zero Waste Festival.

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EXHIBITORS
ECO-NETWORKING
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Program

Our program features a lineup of special guests, leading sustainability innovators and community champions for a day of thought-provoking discussions, innovative ideas, and practical solutions to tackle waste head-on.

 

10:00  am Urban Evolution: Designing a Zero Waste Future
11:15 am From Personal Practice to Policy: Sustainability Leaders in Action
12:30 pm Breaking Down Waste: The New Frontier in Recycling
1:45 pm Fashionable Innovations turning: Trash into Trendsetting
3:00 pm From Plate to Policy: Tackling Food Waste Solutions plus Live cooking Demo
4:30 pm Eco-Networking Forum: Turning Ideas into Impact
10:00
AM

Urban Evolution: Designing a Zero Waste Future​

Our speakers will cover

Green On, inspiring the hospitality sector with closed loop business models

Regenerative renovation of a century-old bungalow, highlighting his commitment to the Living Building Challenge and circular economy.

Complexities of large-scale waste management in dense urban settings, revealing innovations and challenges.

Sustainable events business, Every Bit Counts is redefining event sustainability

Sustainability Victoria will present key findings from the State of Sustainability report, focusing on home energy efficiency and health

Moderator

A researcher, focusing on behavior change and developing interventions to support positive health goals

Tomorrow’s Waste-Free Cities for People and Planet

Join a dynamic panel of experts and innovators at the forefront of sustainable urban development as they explore futuristic  approaches to creating zero-waste cities, from family homes and businesses, to markets and events. Delve into the complexities of large-scale waste management in dense urban settings, and discover how a humble salad bar’s closed loop business model will amaze and inspire you. Learn how the principles of the Living Building Challenge and circular economy can transform even century-old structures, and gain insights from the latest State of Sustainability research on energy upgrades and health in Healthy Homes.

This session will empower you with actionable insights to help shape sustainable, waste-free cities

11:15

AM

From Personal Practice to Policy: Sustainability Leaders in Action

Hear from:

Educator, speaker, author and passionate zero waste advocate

Junior Doctor and Sustainability officer, Member of Doctors for the Environment Australia

Aka Urban Nanna, Author, Educator, and Mentor, a trailblazer for Zero-Waste living

Sustainability educator, trainer and changemaker. Co-founder and President of Zero Waste Victoria and consultant at Sustainability Pathways

Moderator

Comedian, singer and media personality who is passionate about living sustainably

Ever feel like you’re single-handedly taking on the world in your mission to reduce waste and live sustainably? Or maybe you’re overwhelmed by what still needs to change? You're not alone.

Initiating discussions about reducing waste and sustainability, whether with friends, family, community, or elected representatives, can feel challenging, but it is essential for progress. Join us in conversation, with a panel of advocates from  various spheres of influence to gain tools and insights to turn those tough  situations into powerful, actionable change. Be inspired to amplify your voice, empower others, and drive the collective action needed to create a waste-free future. 

This is the discussion you can’t afford to miss—let’s turn talk and ideas into transformation together

12:30

PM

Breaking Down Waste: The New Frontier in Recycling

Hear from:

CEO of Huum, biotechnological solutions for organic waste, including human composting, into valuable resources

Co-founder of Circular Resources Australia, demystifying waste and recycling regulations

Founder of Recycle Wise, transforming recycling practices within the medical industry

City Compost Network, community composting solutions

Zero Plastics Australia, plastic lid recycling

Moderator

VP of Circular Economy Victoria

Transforming Waste into Opportunity

Dive into the evolving  world of recycling in this eye-opening panel discussion that reveals what really happens behind the scenes. From the transformation of everyday bottle tops to the complexities of medical waste, we’ll explore how innovative practices are reshaping recycling as we know it. Navigate the challenges of large-scale waste management and the intricacies of diverse recycling streams, including the  pioneering concept of composting human bodies. This session unpacks the Who, Why, When, and Where next in recycling, offering creative perspectives on turning waste into opportunity.

After all, waste is only waste if you waste it.

1:45

PM

Fashionable Innovations turning Trash into Trendsetting​

Hear from:

Senior lecturer in design, in the School of Fashion and Textiles who is known for her research into sustainable and circular design and the  Fashion Fix project.

A visionary designer and PhD researcher, undertaking a PhD that redesigns pre-consumer textile waste (unsold garments) with Industry Partners

A multidisciplinary creative and PhD candidate, who seeks to counteract the underutilisation of clothing by designing garments for increased useability and longevity

a PhD candidate, researching  ways to separate blended fiber fabrics, extracting the polymers to reuse in new materials, while powderising the organic materials, which can be used to strengthen new garments

Moderator

An RMIT PhD candidate, Julia English has investigated remake collaborations occurring amongst Australian fashion SMEs, sharing her interviews via the podcast Seam Change.

How RMIT experts are revolutionising sustainability in style

Discover how cutting-edge research is transforming textile waste into trendsetting solutions, from remanufacturing unsold garments to upcycling and garment repair. Join a panel of leading experts from RMIT University’s School of Fashion and Textiles exploring circular economy innovations. This session will reveal groundbreaking techniques to separate blended fabrics, strengthen new garments with organic materials, and increase wearability through responsive design. Tune in for a deep dive into the future of fashion, where sustainability and style go hand in hand.

The next wave of fashion is not just about what we wear, but how we wear it with a conscience.

3:00

PM

From Plate to Policy: Tackling Food Waste Solutions

Hear from:

Nutritionist, cooking instructor, Chef and owner of Flavours of Syria

Associate Professor, RMIT University and End Food Waste Australia

EcoMark Natural Branding, to eliminate fruit stickers

Author, The Less Waste, No Fuss Kitchen

Moderator

Sustainability Educator, Trainer and changemaker

Food is more than just sustenance—it’s a rich mosaic that defines our cultural identities. Yet, in today’s world of convenience, far too much of it goes to waste. This engaging panel features a live zero waste cooking demonstration by Chef Nayran of Flavours of Syria, using her culinary talent to build bridges and foster community.

But the conversation doesn’t stop there. Our panel of experts will dive into lively discussions, tackling questions like: Can we really ignore best-by dates? What can be done to eliminate those pesky fruit stickers? How can local sourcing make a tangible impact? We’ll explore how rethinking our shopping habits and pushing for innovative policies can create a culture where every meal is a celebration of sustainability—nourishing both our bodies and our planet.

This is a conversation you won't want to miss, where practical action meets policy change to pave the way for a waste-free future.

4:30

to

6:30

PM

Eco-Networking Forum Turning Ideas into Impact

Community Engagement Specialist at Let Me Be Frank, with 25+ years in local government, non-profits, and the arts.

VP of Circular Economy Victoria, Co-founder of TCX | The Cup Exchange, and circular economy innovator with expertise in Marketing and Sustainability.

Circular Economy Leader at RMIT Activator, driving circular innovation and empowering entrepreneurs across Victoria.

Founder of Real Earth Solutions and creator of REAL SUCCESS ™ Framework, with 20+ years in sustainability, coaching, and permaculture.

Facilitator

Gilbert is recognised both nationally and internationally as a leading voice in placemaking. Known for his dynamic engagement processes and inspirational approach to community activation.

Empower Your Ideas, Amplify Your Impact

Got a Community Project or Campaign and want FREE expert advice?

Are you ready to ignite your passion for sustainability and make a tangible impact? Join us at the Zero Waste Festival Eco-Networking Forum, where you’ll experience an unparalleled opportunity to elevate your eco-journey, connect with like-minded individuals, and gain the tools and inspiration to drive real change.

Whether you’re just beginning your sustainability journey or are already deep into eco-action, this event is crafted for you. You will leave feeling invigorated and equipped with the skills to contribute to transformative projects. The forum will showcase cutting-edge ideas, provide expert advice, and foster connections that will amplify your ability to make a difference.

Here’s what you can expect:

  • Inspiration and Impact: Experience the thrill of seeing innovative concepts pitched and gain actionable insights from industry leaders. You’ll be inspired to expand your vision and understand how you can contribute to impactful projects.
  • Skills and Connections: Engage with four leading experts who are dedicated to offering professional guidance for community initiatives. This is your chance to build valuable skills and forge connections that can propel your involvement in meaningful campaigns.
  • Empowerment and Excitement: Participate in a dynamic environment where your ideas can flourish, and your involvement is key. Whether you choose to take the lead on a new project or simply engage in thought-provoking conversations, your presence will be a catalyst for positive change.


Zero Waste Victoria is excited to partner with industry experts to turn innovative ideas into actionable results. This forum isn’t just about discussing possibilities—it’s about turning those possibilities into reality.

*PREPARE YOUR SUBMISSION*:

Clearly outline your project, campaign or questions. Be concise and specific to help the panel understand your needs, and email to events@zerowastevictoria.org.au. Remember to include your organization’s details. 250-500 words max

The Zero Waste Festival 2024 is organised by Zero Waste Victoria in collaboration with event partners City of Melbourne and Fed Square. We are grateful for the support of our sponsors.

ECO-NETWORKING
Zero Waste Victoria acknowledges the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the Traditional Custodians of the Country on which we live, learn and grow. Always was, always will be.

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