Energy & Emissions
There are many types of greenhouse gas emissions, with many the result of human activity.
It’s now generally agreed that the safe level of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere is less than 350 parts per million (ppm) and we have been above that level for twenty years.
Centralised energy from Australia’s coal power electricity generation is currently responsible for around 80% of greenhouse gas emissions or carbon pollution - this is an area with the greatest opportunity for change.
Sustainable Sydney 2030 sets a target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions including (CO2) by 50 per cent by 2030. This equates to a 70 per cent reduction on 2006 levels by 2030.
Already Carbon Neutral, the City of Sydney aims to remove its dependence on coal–fired electricity and increase its self sufficiency.
As part of a Green Infrastructure program, the City is developing three Decentralised Energy Masterplans to secure low carbon energy supplies, and a Total Water Cycle Masterplan to ensure sustainable energy and water supplies to and beyond 2030.
Green Infrastructure
Increasing electricity demands place pressure on network supply and result in greenhouse gas emissions. With mounting evidence of a warmer, more unstable climate, there is an unprecedented requirement to improve energy efficiency and source low carbon energy supplies.
City of Sydney is developing four Green Infrastructure Masterplans to secure the future of energy and water supply, and to reduce waste.
LED Lighting Trial
Street lighting accounts for around one third of Council's electricity use and is a significant producer of greenhouse gas emissions. As part of the City’s Sustainable Sydney 2030 plan to help create a low-carbon city, 250 sustainable street lights are being installed across the Sydney CBD and city villages.
An Australian first, the Sustainable Street Lighting Trial could potentially reduce energy consumption by 50 per cent – saving millions of dollars in electricity and dramatically reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Residential & Business programs
Through innovation and new partnerships, the City is making its own operations more sustainable, and supporting residents and businesses to adopt sustainable practices.
Find out what you can do to make your home and business more energy efficient and reduce your electricity bill.
