Project background

Council's Environmental Strategy is an overarching document that outlines environmental actions and targets to manage the City of Canada Bay’s sustainable and thriving environment.

The previous Environmental Strategy was adopted in 2020. Since then, an extensive review of the strategy and action plan has undertaken to ensure we continue to meet community expectations.

From 18 August - 2 October 2024 we asked for feedback to shape our new Environmental Strategy, and 125 community members outlined the environmental issues that matter to them. Key issues raised include climate change, biodiversity and litter/water pollution.

Tell us what you think about the draft strategy

Following community feedback, together with a review of Council priorities and analysis of the national and international climate and environment context, the theme ‘Resource Efficient Community’ from the 2020 Environmental Strategy has been split into two sections: Net Zero Community and Circular Economy. The purpose of this is to place greater emphasis on these areas.

We're now seeking feedback on the draft Environmental Strategy. A shorter, summarised version of the draft Environmental Strategy can be found in the snapshot document.

Feedback closes at 11:59pm on Sunday, 22 June 2025.

All feedback will be considered before a report on the draft strategy is presented to Council for consideration.

It is important to note that your submission may be published in reports, or other documents that are produced following the exhibition period and will be made publicly available upon request.

The City of Canada Bay has made remarkable progress in advancing its environmental goals over the past four years. Some of our key accomplishments include:

Reduction in Carbon Emissions:

• Corporate Emissions: Achieved a 77% reduction in corporate greenhouse gas emissions compared to our 2017-18 baseline, far surpassing our mid-term target of a 61% reduction by 2025.
• Community Emissions: Partnered with Inner West Community Energy to boost renewable energy adoption, resulting in a fourfold increase in community solar capacity, now totaling 30,208 kW across numerous homes.

Transition to Renewable Energy:

• Installed rooftop solar panels on 10 Council sites, up from just one in 2018.
• Committed to purchasing 100% renewable energy sourced from NSW solar farms.

Enhanced Waste Management:

• Implemented a comprehensive recycling and composting program, reducing landfill waste by 25%.
• Launched community education campaigns on waste reduction, significantly increasing participation in sustainable waste practices.

Natural Environment and Biodiversity:

• Expanded Coastal Saltmarsh communities in key locations by 30%.
• Planted over 4,200 native trees to enhance urban biodiversity and improve air quality.

Community Engagement:

• Hosted over 100 sustainability workshops and events, engaging thousands of residents in environmental initiatives.
• Supported 19 community groups in local clean-ups.
• Partnered with local schools to integrate sustainability into their curricula.

These achievements underscore the City of Canada Bay's dedication to fostering a sustainable and resilient community, in line with local strategic plans and global goals like the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

The City of Canada Bay's Environmental Strategy is a comprehensive plan focused on reducing carbon emissions, improving waste management, enhancing biodiversity, and increasing community engagement in sustainability practices. Central to this strategy are ambitious targets, such as transitioning to 100% renewable energy, promoting sustainable transportation options, expanding green spaces, and achieving significant waste reduction milestones.

This strategy is closely aligned with the City of Canada Bay’s Emissions Reduction Action Plan, which builds on the progress made since the first Greenhouse Action Plan in 2014. The plan sets a clear path toward achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with an interim target of a 50% reduction by 2030. Key areas of focus include improving energy efficiency in buildings, reducing community emissions, and enhancing waste management practices to minimize environmental impact.

The development of these targets was guided by several key factors: the Community Strategic Plan "Your Future 2030," successful actions taken by other cities worldwide, policy frameworks from the NSW Government and other Australian Governments, the evolving impacts of climate change, advancements in technology, urban densification trends, and the City’s commitment to contributing to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

Achieving these ambitious goals requires strong collaboration with local businesses, residents, and other stakeholders. Together, these efforts will help create a more sustainable and resilient community, with initiatives designed to increase green infrastructure, support climate resilience, and foster a culture of sustainability across the City of Canada Bay.