Sydney Opera House has put environmental and sustainability targets centre stage as part of a new roadmap towards achieving certified 'carbon neutral' status by 2023.

 

As part of its third three-year Environmental Sustainability Plan, covering 2017-19, the Opera House has committed to achieving a seven per cent reduction in its carbon footprint by 2019, in line with the Australian National Target of a 26-28 per cent reduction by 2030 from 2005 levels.

 

In addition, through measures such as metering upgrades, improved air conditioning and developing a peak energy strategy, the Australian landmark is targeting a 14 per cent cut in energy use by 2019 from a baseline of average electricity use levels seen between 2003 and 2008. It is then targeting a 20 per cent reduction in energy use from this baseline by 2023.

 

Moreover, by 2019 the Opera House is planning to develop a climate change resilience strategy "to address long-term impacts of climate change on [the] building and business", as well as a sustainable transport plan aimed at encouraging customers and staff away from single passenger car transport.

 

Scientists have previously warned Sydney Opera House is one of a host of global landmarks are at risk from rising sea levels resulting from climate change.

 

Launched last week, the plan also sets out an 80 per cent construction waste recycling target for its renewal project to upgrade the Opera House over the coming decade, as well as plans to review and audit its water use targets.

 

The roadmap is part of the Opera House's aim to achieve 'carbon neutral' status in line with the Australian Government's National Carbon Offset Standard by 2023, when the building will celebrate its 50th anniversary.

 

Last year, the Opera House was awarded a four-star Green Star rating by the Green Building Council of Australia, and it is now targeting a five-star rating by its 2023 anniversary year.

 

Since launching its first Environmental Sustainability Plan in 2010, the Opera House claims it has saved A$1m in electricity costs, cut its energy use by 75 per cent, and increased recycling of its waste from 20 per cent to 65 per cent.

 

Furthermore, the cultural centre has run four of its annual 'Vivid Live' performing arts festival events to 'carbon neutral' standard, introduced food recycling for charities and received several awards for sustainability, according to the latest plan. (businessGreen)