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 wastePeople & communities
Transport and accessEnvironmental action
Greening and natureBusiness & economy
Green economyEnvironmental action
Water managementEnvironmental 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
Take your recycling to the next level with a free online masterclassLearn what the numbered triangles on plastics mean and have all your tricky questions answered.21 April 2022News
How to get the most out of your clothesStyle shouldn’t cost the earth: 6 sustainable tips to help your wardrobe, wallet and the world.13 April 2022News
5 single-use plastic items that will be banned in NSW this yearHere’s what businesses can’t supply and what customers should expect.11 April 2022News
Sydney’s Town Hall House turns food scraps into fertiliser for the city’s green spacesFood waste from the landmark building is being turned into compost to help our city’s parks and gardens grow.29 March 2022News
How to grow herbs almost anywhereCreate, maintain and nurture a sustainable garden in your backyard, balcony or even benchtop.7 March 2022News
Martin Place sees the arrival of the ice box challenge See how the Aussie building code compares to the passive house standard2 March 2022News
City welcomes mammoth renewable energy deal25 councils commit to using renewable electricity after signing deal with Zen Energy.25 February 2022News
Aboriginal landscaping knowledge gives Tramsheds gardens a revampIndigenous horticultural and employment project blooms in Annandale.18 February 2022News
New Green Electricity Guide makes choosing an energy supplier easySwitch to a greener electricity provider. For many of us, it’s the most impactful thing we can do.16 February 2022
