Sydney

Environment

Water pollution from refuse and industrial effluents has been a problem in Sydney's harbor, especially from the overflow caused by heavy rain. The city has installed pollution traps and litter booms to deal with the problem.

Residents who live near the Kings-ford Smith Airport have been affected by aircraft noise, a problem that authorities have attempted to respond to by rearranging aircraft flight paths.

Awareness of air pollution is promoted by the publication of pollution levels daily in the newspaper as part of the weather report. Increased use of public transportation has helped reduce emission levels.

In 1995 the City of Sydney announced its goal of reducing waste 60 percent by 2000 through the Waste Minimization and Management Act. The government encourages citizens to avoid waste wherever possible, reuse items, and recycle. Commercial waste services provided to the city's businesses include seven-day-a-week collection, glass and paper recycling, bulk waste removal, and varied container sizes.

Preparation for the 2000 Olympic Games included several environmental measures, including a cleanup of the city's beaches and waterways. In addition, all power to the Olympic Village was provided by solar energy.