GREENER PLACES
30 Nov 2017
The NSW government has committed to the delivery of nearly five million trees in ‘green’ infrastructure, increasing Sydney’s tree canopy by 384,615 trees per year until 2030.
Launching the government’s draft policy, Greener Places, Minister for Planning and Housing Anthony Roberts said that green infrastructure was fundamental to ensuring a high-quality of life and sustainability in our cities.
Minister Roberts made the announcement during the Greening Sydney Symposium held at Sydney Olympic Park on Tuesday 28 November.
“Our commitment to enhancing green, open space will complement the new homes and infrastructure being delivered to address NSW’s increased population, which is expected to grow by 2.2 million people by 2036,” Roberts said.
“Green infrastructure is essential infrastructure and should be integrated into all community planning.”
There are four principles that guide the policy: integration, connectivity, multifunctionality and participation. Within these principles are specific actions, including:
- A minimum ISCA rating for all federal and state funded projects
- Aligning the green infrastructure network with NSW infrastructure and urban renewal initiatives, particularly longer-term transport plans
- Encouraging alternative modes of transport such as walking, cycling and jogging
- Collaborating with water authorities to maximise green infrastructure along waterways and stormwater channels
- Developing open space strategies in every local government area to ensure equity of access to greenspace
Urban greening strategies can help with climate change adaptation, reduce the urban heat island effect, improve biodiversity and storm water management, and provide healthier spaces for active living.
The initiative, produced by the NSW government architect, will be led by the Department of Planning and Environment’s Office of Open Space and Parklands.
Commissioner for Open Space and Parklands, Fiona Morrison, said that a cities tree canopy is one of the biggest factors in addressing heatwaves in our suburbs and reducing the urban heat island effect.
“Trees not only offer shade and shelter from rain and wind, they also help keep the air clean by producing oxygen and support wildlife, while also adding value to the aesthetics and economy of our cities and suburbs,” Morrison said.
The plan aims to create a healthier, more liveable and sustainable urban environment by improving community access to recreation and exercise, supporting walking and cycling connections, and improving the resilience of urban areas.
Minister Robert’s said Sydney’s current tree canopy is about 16 percent and the initiative to plant five million trees would increase this to 40 percent.
According to a report on Australia’s urban tree canopy, Where Are All The Trees, Hobart boasts the highest tree canopy coverage at 56 percent.
Adelaide has the lowest proportion of tree canopy coverage among Australia’s capital cities with 27 percent.
The policy defined green infrastructure as “the network of green spaces, natural systems and semi-natural systems including parks, rivers, bushland and private gardens that are strategically planned, designed and managed to support a good quality of life in an urban environment.”
“We need to think of green infrastructure as equally essential as roads, transport infrastructure, stormwater and drainage because of the many benefits it provides,” NSW Government Architect, Peter Poulet, said.
“Greenspace is a hallmark of liveability, and by establishing a network of high-quality green areas that join towns, public transport, and residential areas, we aim to maximise quality of life and wellbeing.”