Environmental action
Working towards a more sustainable, liveable city.
Why we’re doing this
In June 2019, Lord Mayor Clover Moore declared a climate emergency in response to the ongoing effects of climate change.
The challenges we collectively face are significant. But we’re determined to maintain the liveability of our city and build our resilience to the impacts of global warming.
We’ve created this environmental sustainability hub for residents and businesses in the city, to learn about the different ways you can take action. There are dozens of ways you can make a difference.
We’ve also gathered information about our ongoing sustainability initiatives, so you can see what we’re doing.
Together, we can safeguard the future of Sydney.
Action areas
Environmental action
Reducing waste at homeEnvironmental action
Recycling and wasteEnvironmental action
Energy and climate changeEnvironmental action
Greening and natureEnvironmental action
Water managementPeople & communities
Transport and accessBusiness & economy
Green economy
Environmental support & funding
Making Sydney sustainable
Development applications
Guidance on sustainable developmentIncorporating general design features during the planning and construction stages of development can reduce resource use and improve a building’s operational efficiency.Strategies & action plans
Sydney’s sustainable office buildings planWe’re helping owners and tenants reduce their environmental impact.Published 30 August 2018Strategies & action plans
Residential apartments sustainability planYou can save significantly by considering the environment in your home.Published 30 August 2015Strategies & action plans
Making Sydney a sustainable destinationBusinesses in the entertainment and accommodation sector can benefit from an increased focus on the environment.Published 28 February 2018
City of Sydney News
News
New free waste signs: get yours nowNudge your neighbours in the right direction.20 September 2024News
Get in the loop: Learn about Sydney’s circular economyRethinking how we buy and throw away.21 August 2024News
NSW first residential trial uses insects to transform food waste The larvae turn your scraps into animal feed and fertiliser.21 June 2024News
Energy, water, waste: 3 handy guides for apartment buildings Building managers and strata committees use this practical how-to information.9 May 2024News
3 free ways to recycle empty blister packsThey’re made of valuable materials but can’t be recycled in kerbside bins. Here’s what to do with them instead.20 May 2024News
Nectar No-Nos: Why Sharing Is Not Always Caring for LorikeetsLearn more about this ‘hairy’ tongue bird and what you can do to help keep them healthy and happy.3 April 2024News
Pals with pigeons: the secret identity of this common city-dwellerLearn more about the ever-present creature and what you can do to help keep our neighbourhoods healthy5 April 2024News
From dumpster to Dempstah: recycling textile wasteHow a City of Sydney grant recipient turned unwanted clothing into high-quality yarn28 February 2024News
Seagulls snacking: Seaside scavengers in the cityUnderstand the eating habits of our feathered friends to keep our cities healthy28 February 2024News
The heat is on to map microclimates in SydneyRedfern, Moore Park, Pyrmont – where do you think the hottest spots are in our area?28 February 2024