Decision details

Memorandum by the Chief Executive Officer

To Council:

The Environmental Sustainability Policy 2021 was created to support the implementation of the Environmental Strategy 2021-2025 and the declaration of a climate emergency in 2019.

A review of the policy commenced in late 2024, in line with the statutory review schedule. This review determined that the policy was no longer required as a standalone document as its purpose and objectives have been superseded by strategies and policies adopted since 2021 and are adequately addressed. In line with maturity in environmental sustainability, the City of Sydney's commitments and ambitions are integrated into relevant strategies and policies (refer Attachment B - Environmental Sustainability Policy Objectives Comparison) removing the need for a dedicated policy.

The Waste Reduction and Circular Materials Strategy is the final remaining core strategy requiring update to cover the policy’s objectives. This strategy is being submitted to the February 2026 Council meeting for adoption and, as such, this memorandum requests that Council rescind the Environmental Sustainability Policy 2021.

MONICA BARONE PSM

Chief Executive Officer

Attachment A.               Environmental Sustainability Policy 2021

Attachment B.               Environmental Sustainability Policy Objectives comparison

Moved by the Chair (the Lord Mayor), seconded by Councillor Worling –

It is resolved that Council:

(A)      note the integration of the City of Sydney's environmental sustainability objectives into strategies developed since 2021 as shown at Attachment B to the subject memorandum; and

(B)      rescind the Environmental Sustainability Policy 2021 as shown at Attachment A to the subject memorandum.

Carried unanimously.

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