Green Building Council of Australia chief executive Davina Rooney said the Opera House had improved its rating since it earned a 4-star badge in 2015.

“This is proof that any building – old or new, big or small – can reach the highest sustainability outcomes. This achievement deserves a standing ovation,” Rooney said.

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Other environmental improvements include the building switching to 100 per cent renewable electricity, eliminating single-use plastic takeaway packaging from all venues and restaurants, diverting 95 per cent of event waste from landfill for Vivid LIVE and outdoor concerts in 2022 (and on track for 2023).

It has also maintained carbon-neutral status year-on-year since 2018, increased operational waste recycling rate from 55 per cent to more than 90 per cent, installed an artificial reef in the waters around Bennelong Point to restore habitat and increase marine biodiversity, and reduced electricity and water usage by about 20 per cent since 2018.

“The Opera House’s 6 Star Green Star certification highlights the remarkable progress this world-famous building has made in reducing its environmental impact as well as its broader commitment to long-term sustainability,” said NSW Minister for the Arts and Minister for Music and Night-time Economy, John Graham.

Sydney Opera House CEO Louise Herron said the building could now be used as a model for others.

“We hope our focus on sustainability, which is part of the Opera House’s DNA, will help inspire organisations everywhere, big and small, to create positive change.”

GREENING THE HOUSE

• The Opera House produces 1000 tonnes of waste annually (25 semi-trailers full) with 80 per cent from food and beverage.
• Food waste is composted offsite in Wollongong.
• About 60 per cent of electricity is related to heating and cooling – which is why Jorn Utzon’s innovative seawater cooling is integral to efficient energy performance.
• On average, the Opera House uses 60 megalitres of water per year – enough to fill 23 Olympic swimming pools.
• The underwater artificial reef structure has attracted marine species such crimson wrasse, estuary stingray, hulafish, the gloomy octopus, and the endangered white’s seahorse.
• Environmentally friendly cleaning products such as 45 litres of olive oil are used to polish the brass, and nine litres of bicarb soda to clean the concrete annually.
• All venues are now free of single-use plastic packaging.