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
Energy and climate changeEnvironmental action
Recycling and wasteEnvironmental action
Water managementEnvironmental action
Greening and naturePeople & communities
Transport and accessEnvironmental action
Reducing waste at homeBusiness & 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
5 tips to cut waste and save cash when you shopThe small decisions we make can have a big impact on the planet.25 May 2023News
Nurturing nature one nesting box at a timeThe City of Sydney program welcoming wildlife back to our area.22 May 2023News
A food scientist, engineer and tech entrepreneur walk into a bar ... Sydney’s leading innovators inject knowledge into your night out at Raising the Bar9 March 2023News
Free beginner sewing and repair workshopsLearn how to sew on a button, hem and repair a hole. Running this June in Glebe and Alexandria.8 March 2023News
It’s easier than ever to recycle tricky itemsGive a second life to your old clothes, batteries, mobile phones, electronics, polystyrene, x-rays and more.7 March 2023News
It’s electrifying: 5 key parts of our electrification of transport strategy Our draft electrification of transport action plan outlines a smooth, responsible path towards zero transport emissions.21 February 2023News
Bang for buck: environmental actions rankedSee what’s more impactful than living car free, going vegan or composting9 February 2023News
7 things to know about our revised street tree master planWe're working to increase canopy cover and create more attractive, resilient and well shaded streets.6 February 2023News
Garbage truck fire a reminder to correctly dispose of batteriesThere are risks of improperly disposing of batteries.31 January 2023News
Business as usual for our waste collectionWaste collection in our area is running as scheduled.27 January 2023