A Greener Side of Sydney

See a greener side of the city, from community gardens and clothes swaps to workshops, talks and local volunteering

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Sydney’s environmental calendar goes well beyond the harbour and beaches. Across the city, community groups, local organisations and neighbourhood spaces regularly host events that make it easier to learn something new, give back or simply experience Sydney from a different perspective.

Depending on when you visit, the City of Sydney’s environmental events program can include community gardening, recycling days, repair and reuse workshops, clothes swaps, sustainability talks, urban beekeeping and family-friendly activities focused on nature and the environment. From Hotel Woolstore 1888 in Pyrmont, many inner-city events are within easy reach, making it simple to add something local to your Sydney plans.

Get your hands dirty

For travellers who like to do more than simply look around, Sydney regularly offers opportunities to get involved.

The City of Sydney calendar features activities such as Sydney City Farm volunteer working bees, where participants can help with watering, planting, weeding and harvesting, alongside other community-led environmental programs throughout the year.  It is a different way to spend a morning in Sydney and a chance to meet some of the people helping shape a greener city.

Repair, reuse and rethink

Some of the most interesting environmental events start with things we already own.

Look out for clothes swaps, recycling drop-off days, repair and craft workshops, upcycling activities and sessions using reclaimed materials. The program changes throughout the year, so there is often something different to discover, whether you are travelling with kids or simply looking for a more thoughtful way to spend an afternoon.

Learn something new

Sydney’s environmental program also includes talks, workshops and experiences exploring everything from urban beekeeping and food sustainability to biodiversity, climate and growing at home. Some are hands-on, some are designed to start a conversation, and many offer a chance to see how sustainability is being approached at a local level.

Leave a little lighter

Exploring Sydney’s beaches, parks and harbour foreshore comes with a simple opportunity to give something back.

If you are heading to the coast, consider the Take 3 for the Sea approach: take three pieces of rubbish with you when you leave the beach, waterway or outdoor space. It is a small action, but one that helps keep litter out of our oceans.

ALL members can also choose to support environmental causes by donating eligible Reward points through DIFT, giving your stay another way to contribute beyond the hotel.

What’s happening during your stay?

Sydney’s environmental events change throughout the year, so the best place to see what is happening while you are here is the City of Sydney What’s On environmental calendar. From community working bees and workshops to markets, talks and family activities, check the latest listings before heading out.

Image credit: Noah Buscher