Site visit 1: Sydney Opera House – 9:00am – 10:30am session – 20 March

20 Mar 2026

Tour highlights

Designing with Nature
Learn how Jørn Utzon’s original design was inspired by the natural world—from the sail-like shells to the building’s integration with Sydney Harbour—and how this vision continues to guide sustainable renewal today. 

Artificial Reef Project
Visit the site of the Opera House’s artificial reef installation and hear about its role in enhancing marine biodiversity, supporting local ecosystems, and contributing to long-term environmental research. 

Sustainable Renewal Projects
Explore the environmental and social impacts of recent upgrades, including the Concert Hall Renewal and Box Office Accessibility Project, which have improved energy performance, accessibility, and visitor experience while preserving heritage values. 

Energy Efficiency in Action
Go behind the scenes to see how the seawater cooling system harnesses the harbour to regulate building temperatures  and how systems ensure optimal energy performance across the site. 

Waste and Circularity
Discover how the Opera House sorts, tracks, and manages waste onsite to achieve a diversion rate of over 85% from landfill, and how circular economy principles are embedded into daily operations. 

Climate Positive Goals
Understand how the Opera House is working toward climate positive operations