This afternoon our Sydney students, pictured left, ventured to Sydney Olympic Park to learn about its water and energy innovations.

The group drove through Newington, the world’s first sustainable suburb, which was originally the 2000 Sydney Olympics’ athletes housing site.

Student Jastevia Sallet says, “I love how all the houses have recycled water. It was cool how the purple meter supplies recycled water and the green one is potable, drinking water.” The meters are located in the front of each home and represent the two types of water houses receive.

Out at the water treatment pond, treatment plant and the Brickpit water storage reservoir, students observed the processing of sewage and storm water from the area. The recycled water is then pumped to the Park and Newington for all uses except drinking water and showers.

“Our guide Marianne’s motherly characteristic made us feel very comfortable around her,” says student Liz Lozano. “But her enthusiasm for the sustainability of the Park really excited us too!”

Similar to the water management practices, students were impressed by the abundance of solar panels for energy found throughout the Park. The students all believe the Park has opened their eyes to new methods of sustainability.