Turning a Community Event into a Circular Experience: Volunteering with Perspektiv

Back in February, Perspektiv team members Jordyn Barlow and Kirsten Neil volunteered with the Town of Mosman Park at a local community event designed to rethink how waste is managed at public gatherings.

Instead of the typical single-use plates and cutlery, the event trialled a reusable system supported by a central waste station. All bins in the park were removed, encouraging attendees to bring their waste directly to volunteers who could help sort it correctly.

At the waste station, Jordyn and Kirsten helped guide the community through the process. They asked attendees to separate food scraps into the FOGO bin, return reusable plates and cutlery to be washed, and place items such as napkins and cups in the correct recycling or general waste streams.

But the role went beyond sorting waste. The pair also spoke with community members about why the system mattered, answered questions about recycling and FOGO, and helped correct common mistakes when items ended up in the wrong bin.

At the end of the event, they assisted with the clean-up, ensuring all reusable plates and cutlery were returned and helping pack down the station.

It was a simple idea with a powerful impact: turning a local event into a practical demonstration of how circular systems and community engagement can significantly reduce waste.