The concept of a “nature-positive” city refers to restoring and regenerating natural ecosystems rather than allowing them to decline. Despite the prioritisation of green infrastructure in Sydney, there is insufficient investment and measurement strategies to ensure effective growth of living infrastructure—such as trees, parks, and water bodies—where they are needed most.

Expanding Sydney’s natural infrastructure offers several key benefits, including reducing urban heat and air pollution, enhancing climate resilience, improving mental and physical health, supporting biodiversity, and strengthening the city's ecological systems. However, current efforts fall short, risking the potential loss of these crucial advantages.

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Solutions to increase nature in Sydney exist at various levels, from individual actions like planting trees in backyards to larger-scale initiatives such as greening streets, infrastructure corridors, and new developments. Implementing nature-positive strategies requires coordinated efforts involving community education, ambitious infrastructure targets, and policy integration at all levels of government.

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Key recommendations include:

1. Education and Indigenous Knowledge: Establishing a Centre for Urban and Indigenous Ecology to enhance awareness and incorporate traditional ecological practices into urban planning.
2. Infrastructure Targets and Monitoring: Setting clear targets for urban greenery and regularly tracking progress to ensure effectiveness.
3. Investment and Policy Frameworks: Introducing financial incentives such as a “green factor” tool for developers, and ensuring government procurement prioritises living infrastructure solutions.

By treating natural infrastructure as a valuable city asset, Sydney can become a global leader in sustainable, resilient, and liveable urban design, ensuring equitable access to green spaces and mitigating climate challenges.

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