Green economy
Working towards a sustainable future is a founding principle of our Sydney 2030 vision. We want to make our city as green as possible by 2030.
Why are we doing this
Working towards a sustainable future is a founding principle of our 2030 vision. We want to make our city as green as possible by 2030.
A green economy is a core element of our vision, offering 5 programs with tips and tools to help Sydney’s business sector operate with greater environmental sustainability.
How we can achieve this
Sustainable office buildings
Sydney’s sustainable office building plan calls on building owners and tenants to reap the benefits of efficient buildings running on renewable energy.
It outlines actions such as:
- using and promoting environmental ratings
- making cost-effective retrofits
- owners engaging tenants for whole building performance
- installing on-site solar or procuring renewable energy
- leaders commit to net zero
- connecting to recycled water where possible.
By working together, we can accelerate net zero emissions buildings and harness the economic and social benefits.
Building owners can find the latest news, resources and tips to make their buildings more efficient at Better Buildings Partnership.
We support office-based businesses through CitySwitch Green Office with tips and resources to significantly improve day-to-day energy and waste efficiency, reduce operational costs, and create value for employees.
Related programs and guides
Networks & partners
Better Buildings PartnershipA group of Sydney's leading public, private and institutional landlords are working together to make the city's buildings more sustainable.Business support & funding
Building tune-up programOur building tune-up program supports owners and facility managers make cost-effective performance improvements.Environmental support & funding
Water savings partnershipThe water savings partnership program provides businesses support and resources to increase water efficiency.Environmental support & funding
Building upgrade financeBuilding upgrade finance is a smarter way for building owners to access capital for commercial building improvement projects, allowing both owners and tenants to reap the benefits of operating a more sustainable and efficient building.Environmental support & funding
CitySwitch Green OfficeCitySwitch Green Office is Australia's flagship sustainability program for office-based businesses.Guides
Commercial building improvement guideA 6-step introduction to upgrading your property.Published 20 August 2020
A sustainable destination
Our plan to make Sydney a sustainable destination sets a vision for our city to be recognised globally as a sustainable destination for business and holidays.
Sydney’s accommodation and entertainment sector is a major contributor to our city’s economy. The sector’s energy, waste and water-intensive operations are also big contributors to our environmental footprint.
There's a growing demand for sustainable tourism and business travel destinations. With an improvement in environmental performance, Sydney’s hotels and entertainment operators will be well positioned to take advantage of this.
Together, we can build Sydney’s reputation as a leading sustainable destination for tourists and business travellers.
Accommodation and entertainment sector leaders are:
- using and promoting environmental ratings
- improving waste management
- undertaking cost-effective retrofits
- installing on-site solar or procuring renewable energy.
Owners, operators and event organisers are seeing benefits including:
- attracting visitors from the growing sustainable tourism market
- operational cost savings
- corporate social responsibility and staff engagement.
We have compiled resources to help owners and operators of accommodation and event venues build Sydney’s reputation as a sustainable destination.
