No wonder: she's been championing human rights and social justice causes since her teens. The now-27 mum of one is the Greens Senator for South Australia. She's also freakishly good at limbo.

Send your questions for Sarah Hanson-Young here

Rinse cycle

Q: Do you really have to rinse stuff before you recycle? Seems like a waste of water...
LA, Byron Bay, NSW

A: Rinsing recyclables makes the recycling plant process more efficient - so it requires less energy and produces fewer carbon emissions. It also makes for a more hygienic recycling bin! Hot water and detergent aren't necessary - a swish of cold water will suffice.

Painless paint

Q: I'm about to renovate. How can I minimise paint's environmental impact?
HP, Northcote, Vic

A: Think about what surfaces you really have to paint - not everything needs to be matt white. Find eco-friendly paint suppliers on the internet (try house-paint.com.au). Only buy the amount you need - your retailer can help you estimate it. Also ask them if they'll refund you for unopened cans. Failing that, give leftovers to a friend.

And don't ever pour paint down the drain - it's far too nasty for our waterways! Instead, contact a local Hazardous Household Waste Depot for a responsible disposal solution.

Anti-chemicals

Q: Any eco tips for dealing with white ants in my garden?
SN, Launceston, Tas

A: After using nasty chemicals for years to get rid of white ants, exterminators have come up with toxin-free methods - google "eco-friendly exterminator" to find one. Bear in mind that getting the experts in early will mean less drastic action and fewer chemicals. If you're building a new home, think ahead - consider fitting a physical termite barrier as you construct, like one made out of stainless steel mesh.

Send your questions for Sarah Hanson-Young here