Cutting operational energy use by 30%, getting off gas in our operations and helping renters access programs for better efficiency are some of the new proposals in a renewed environmental strategy.
Unanimously endorsed by Council, the community is invited to provide its feedback on the draft strategy focused on the next five years to reach net zero emissions by 2035.
“Leading Sydney to a decarbonised future is a key priority for us, and this environmental strategy sets out how we’ll continue to reduce our emissions and tackle the climate crisis head on,” Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore AO said.
“In human history, 2024 was the hottest year globally and we are feeling that change locally, with six of NSW’s hottest years on record occurring in the past 10 years.
“We’ve made huge strides already by cutting operational emissions by 76% since 2006. While this highlights how we’re on the right track, the next five years are crucial.
“We purchase our electricity from 100% renewable sources and we must now eliminate fossil gas from the mix. This complex but important work is under way, including importantly in our pools, where we are replacing gas with efficient electric heat pumps.
"We have also budgeted to improve efficiency across our properties to reduce our emissions to 85% by 2030.”
To reduce costs and help support the grid in peak times, the City of Sydney is aiming to reduce its energy use by nearly a third by 2030, by greatly improving efficiency in buildings. It will do this by eradicating costly gas in its properties and using less harmful refrigerants in air conditioning units.
The City of Sydney will also continue to support local communities doing their bit in reducing emissions which are down 41% since 2006. In the local area, 65% of households are renting and limited in what they can do to electrify the places where they live.
The City of Sydney will:
- promote state and federal programs that aim to help renters access renewable energy-efficient technologies
- push for resources to be allocated to monitor and enforce a minimum rental standard with safeguards to avoid housing affordability impacts
- continue to support apartment buildings to electrify their assets and improve energy and water efficiency through residential and commercial partnerships
- advocate for changes to the minimum rental standards to include energy efficiency.
Residents and businesses can have their say on the draft environmental strategy by 5pm, Friday 9 May here.
For media enquiries contact Andrew Booth: 0482 530 091 or email abooth@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au
For interviews with Clover Moore AO, Lord Mayor of Sydney contact Paul Mackay. Phone 0436 816 604 or email pmackay@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au
For more stories from your local area, visit news.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au
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