At Janet Clarke Hall (JCH), sustainability isn’t just the latest buzzword it’s a way of life. This past SWOTVAC, the College once again proved that small actions can spark meaningful change, thanks to the much-loved SWAPVAC Station. What started as a simple idea to encourage sharing and reduce waste, emerged into a space of giving, reusing, and community spirit.
Set up in the College’s Junior Common Room during SWOTVAC, the SWAPVAC Station gave residents a chance to leave behind items they no longer needed—think clothes, books, stationery, kitchen goods, and more. These items, still in great condition, are then free for others to take, creating a cycle of generosity that keeps useful items out of landfill and in loving hands.
For many JCH students, the SWAPVAC Station was more than just an opportunity to grab a free saucepan or a stylish new jacket. It’s a reminder that community and sustainability go hand-in-hand. “It’s like a treasure hunt,” said one resident with a smile. “But it also feels good knowing that we’re reducing waste and helping each other out.”
The SWAPVAC Station for semester 1 2025 saw record participation, with dozens of items exchanged and repurposed, everything from t-shirts to boardgames. Behind the scenes, the Janet's Green Bean Team ensured the area stayed tidy and that unclaimed goods were donated to local charities. Nothing went to waste.
The initiative aligns with JCH’s broader commitment to environmental responsibility. From composting food scraps in the Dining Hall to recycling e-waste the College is weaving sustainability into our everyday life.
In a world where climate anxiety can feel overwhelming, initiatives like the SWAPVAC Station offer a hopeful, hands-on solution. They remind us that positive change often starts right where we live, with the choices we can make and the community we build.
Article by Deputy Principal, Annie McGuire.
