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 managementPeople & communities
Transport and accessEnvironmental action
Greening and natureBusiness & economy
Green economyEnvironmental action
Reducing waste at home
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
Keeping bikes out of landfillRevolve Recycling want to show that recycling and rehoming old bikes makes sense17 December 2021News
Shoalhaven solar farm opensHow the City of Sydney harnessed south coast people power.24 November 2021News
Have yourself a zero-waste ChristmasFrom the tree to the dining table, it’s easy to reduce your festive footprint.18 November 2021News
Sydney communities are negotiating ground-breaking power agreements. They think you can tooLearn how a group of apartment buildings and a local school buy 100% renewable electricity from wind and solar farms.9 November 2021News
Your COP26 cheat sheet: what it is and why it’s important Here’s what to know about the United Nations Climate Change Conference this year and what we’re doing in Sydney .2 November 2021News
Australian-first study shows green roofs and solar panels work better togetherWatch a webinar about this study of Sydney rooftops and how it could lead to cooler, greener and more resilient cities.25 October 2021News
Under the lid: What happens to your recyclingWe follow the journey of the most common items and find out what they become.22 October 2021News
Online masterclasses teach sustainable fashion, sewing and side hustlesExpert tutors from styling, finance and sustainability share their tips on 6 and 7 November.18 October 2021News
How to have a zero-waste picnicMake your next outdoor gathering a greener one. Here are 6 easy steps to get you started.29 September 2021News
Cutting food waste key to reducing our carbon footprintTo mark the United Nations Food Waste Awareness Day, we’re shining the light on how we’re working with residents and businesses to divert scraps from landfill.28 September 2021
