Sydney

New South Wales, Australia

The City’s operations became carbon neutral in 2007 and were the first government in Australia certified as such in 2011.

Emissions Reduction

22%

As of: 2019 (Baseline: 2006)

Economic Growth

62%

As of: 2019 (Baseline: 2006)

Emissions Reduction Target

NET ZERO BY 2035

Baseline: 2006

Renewable Energy Target

50%

by 2030

Emissions by Source

Electricity/Energy 71%

Transport 17%

Waste 12%

As of: 2019

Electricity Mix

As of: 2019

By 2021, the City of Sydney will reduce emissions in its operations by 44 per cent from 2006 levels and move to 50 per cent renewable energy. And across the local government area, we have set targets for 50 per cent renewables by 2030, 70 per cent reduction in 2006 greenhouse gas emissions levels by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2050.

The City of Sydney has a strong track record. The City’s operations became carbon neutral in 2007 and were the first government in Australia certified as such in 2011. Since 2006, the organisation’s greenhouse gas emissions have reduced by 25 per cent and emissions across the local government area have reduced by 19 per cent amid strong growth in population and worker numbers – with a 41 per cent reduction in ‘carbon intensity’ (emissions per unit of GDP).

The City empowers Sydney’s business, resident and visitor communities to take environmental action through range of targeted programs – Better Building Partnership, CitySwitch Green Office and Smart Green Apartments. The City also offers environmental grants.

The City of Sydney local area covers 26.15 square metres and is a vital economic hub and tourism gateway for Australia. It is home to more than 20,000 businesses and 210,000 residents and supports 1.2 million residents, workers, visitors and students every day.

Environmental Strategy and Action Plan 2016-2021

We outline our progress to date, and approach to achieving our bold Sustainable Sydney 2030 targets.

Green Environmental Sustainability Progress Reports

Our green reports set out our environmental targets for our own operations and across the local area to 2030.

Planning For Net Zero Energy Buildings

Improving the environmental performance of buildings is critical to meet NSW and local government targets. Implementing the performance standards will have a tangible impact on lowering greenhouse gas emissions in the built environment and improve building resilience in a costeffective manner, as well as contribute to a positive and sustainable business recovery for Greater Sydney.