2025 Festival Dates Will Be Announced Next Month! - Learn More
Our Story, Our Mission, Our Community
The Rubbish Film Festival began with a simple idea: young people’s voices matter in shaping our planet’s future. Since our first edition, we’ve empowered students to harness their creativity and tackle pressing environmental issues through film.
We believe that when young filmmakers tell stories about climate action, waste reduction, and responsible resource use, entire communities listen.
Our mission is to nurture these voices, turning raw imagination into impactful media that inspires learning, dialogue, and tangible steps toward a greener, cleaner world.
At the heart of the Rubbish Film Festival is the belief that recognition can amplify change. Our awards don’t just applaud talent, they shine a spotlight on student-led solutions that address some of humanity’s most urgent challenges.
Whether it’s regional honours that highlight local leadership or national accolades that place emerging filmmakers on a broader stage, each award signals that youth perspectives are valuable and influential.
By celebrating these accomplishments, we champion new storytellers, encouraging them to keep pushing creative boundaries and inspiring others to take meaningful action.
The Rubbish Film Festival is proud to stand as an SDG Champion, focusing especially on SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). We know that the environmental challenges we face transcend borders and demand collective solutions.
By aligning our mission with these international benchmarks, we encourage students to consider their role in a global movement.
Their films don’t just address local issues; they also resonate in global dialogues, reinforcing the idea that we can, and must, work together to build a sustainable future.
In a few short years, the Rubbish Film Festival’s reach has grown from a single pilot program to a thriving, cross-border initiative connecting schools, communities, and countries. Thousands of students have sharpened their media skills, developed environmental literacy, and sparked conversations that extend beyond the classroom.
Teachers report heightened student engagement and increased curiosity about sustainability topics. Local authorities see real cultural shifts, from more eco-conscious daily habits to community-driven campaigns. By uniting creativity with education, we’re building momentum for lasting environmental stewardship.
Encouraging youth voices across 150 schools and counting.
Building networks that span across urban centres, local authorities, and borders
Fostering improved environmental awareness and enthusiasm in the classroom.
The Rubbish Film Festival is powered by CreateSchool, a organisation who blends creativity, innovation, and digital literacy in education.
CreateSchool supports young people in developing the critical thinking, communication, and media production skills they need to thrive in the 21st century.
By facilitating workshops, providing resources, and connecting diverse communities, CreateSchool ensures that each participant’s journey is meaningful and fun.
Discover how you can collaborate with us to amplify youth-driven sustainability messages and support environmental storytelling.
Bring the Rubbish Film Festival to your classroom and inspire the next generation of filmmakers and environmental advocates.
Ready to use your creativity for change? Share your vision, showcase your talents, and help build a more sustainable future.
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