Sydney Olympic Park recognised for environmental leadership

The Sydney Olympic Park Authority (SOPA) has recognised in the NSW Government's Green Globe Awards, receiving the prestigious Ten Year Sustainability Achievement Award and the Public Sector Sustainability Award.

Congratulating SOPA for its twin awards, NSW Minister for Sport and Recreation stated "the Ten Year Sustainability Achievement Award recognises the Authority's ongoing commitment to managing the environmental legacy of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games and the ongoing evolution of the Park from a major event precinct to a thriving economic centre that currently supports over 150 organisations employing some 14,000 people.

"The Authority has managed the significant growth in the Park's usage, undertaking a variety of major programs to reduce the impact of development on the environment through extensive use of the Park's recycled water system, innovative use of reduced power consumption technology and the ongoing management of the Park's extensive flora and fauna, including endangered species and their habitat."

The NSW Government's Green Globe Awards recognise environmental excellence, leadership and innovation in NSW.

SOPA shared the Public Sector Sustainability Award with the University of Western Sydney and the Department of Education and Communities, the three organisations recognised for their ongoing role in delivering the annual Youth Eco Summit at the Park's Newington Armory precinct.

Minister Upton added "the Summit brings thousands of school students together at the Park in October each year to take part in lectures, hands-on workshops, education activities and displays.

"As well as the workshop, students from across New South Wales are able to get involved using video conferencing facilities.

"It's pleasing to see Sydney Olympic Park Authority being recognised for its long-term commitment to the environment and environmental education, and I congratulate SOPA Chairman, Michael Knight, the Board, CEO Alan Marsh, and the team on the work they are doing for the people of NSW."

Further details on the Green Globe Awards are available at www.environment.nsw.gov.au/greenglobes/

7th July 2010 - OPPORTUNITY TO MANAGE NEWINGTON ARMORY LODGE