Canberra - Sustainable City

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Sustainable City

Canberra

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Oceania Australia Canberra Sustainable City

Overview

Sustainable City The guide was updated: 2024-06-10

Canberra strives to leave a smaller carbon footprint. It is a progressive city where sustainability truly matters. In 2019 Canberra became the first city in mainland Australia (and outside Europe) to have achieved a 100% renewable energy supply.

As a visitor, you can appreciate the eco-friendly rental boats, sip biodynamic wines and enjoy farm fresh produce. Australia's capital is a great destination for travellers who want to reduce their environmental footprint without missing out on new sights, flavours and adventures.

Capital Brewing Co — Sustainable Brewery

Capital Brewing Co — Sustainable Brewery

Capital Brewing Co is Australia’s first brewery to achieve Climate Active carbon neutral certification for their entire organisation and all of their products! The brewery sends spent beer-making ingredients to farmers for cattle feed, composts the leftovers, and minimises water and energy consumption. Their eco-friendly brews include experimental creations like the pineapple-forward hazy pale ale and the tart Crimson Crush cherry sour. The Canberra Taproom offers freshly poured beers for adults, games and playgrounds for kids, as well as shaded lush garden spaces for the entire family.

Capital Region Farmers Market

Capital Region Farmers Market

The Capital Region Farmers Market is Canberra's best source of fresh organic produce. More than 100 local farmers set up stalls every Saturday at Exhibition Park. You will find everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to flowers, honey, baked goods, smoked meats, eggs and dairy products. Grab a coffee to-go and explore the planet-friendly offerings.

More Farmers' Markets

More Farmers' Markets

While Capital Region Farmers Market might be the most famous one, there are several more to satisfy your need for fresh fruit and vegetables, pastries and food stalls. – Old Bus Depot Markets are open every Sunday from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm. – Haig Park Village Markets set up stalls every Sunday from 9 am to 2 pm. – Southside Farmers Markets welcome shoppers on Sunday mornings from 8 am till 11:30 am. – Queanbeyan Market opens on the third Sunday of every month from 9 am until 1 pm. – Murrumbateman Village Market opens on the second and fourth Sunday of every month from 9 am till 1 pm. – The Market at Bungendore welcomes you every second Sunday of the month from 9 am until 3 pm.

Electric GoBoats

Electric GoBoats

GoBoat treat the city with respect and keep the waterways clean and quiet. Their solar powered electric boats are made with recycled plastic. You can rent a boat and captain it yourself, sail around Lake Burley Griffin and enjoy a meal. Check out the sights in Central Basin, explore Springbank Island, or navigate all the way around to spot Government House at Yarralumla. Bring your own drinks for passengers. GoBoat sells snacks at the pier.

Cycling

Cycling

Canberra has an extensive network of designated bike lanes on both main and secondary roads. Outside the city, mountain bikers can explore the trails through the forests and pines. On firmer ground, road cyclists can navigate between bike-friendly cafes and bakeries in the Australian Capital Territory. The easiest way to get a bike in Canberra is by signing up for the Share A Bike bike-sharing scheme. They have automated bike rental machines around the city centre. For longer rides, consider companies like Cycle Canberra that will deliver your new two-wheeled mate right to your hotel. Of course, you always have the option of joining a guided bike tour, too.

First Nations' Art & Culture

First Nations' Art & Culture

Sustainable tourism is not only about being environmentally friendly, but also about respecting the cultural heritage of the destination. In Canberra, you can immerse yourself in one of the oldest and richest cultures in human history. Appreciate the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art and traditions at the National Gallery of Australia, Burrunju Art Gallery and Aboriginal Dreamings Gallery. Take a tour with a local Ngunnawal elder with Dhawura Tours or try your hand at traditional First Nations practices at a workshop at the National Arboretum.

Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary

Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary

Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary is a protected nature area in north Canberra with several trails for walking, running and cycling. The sanctuary's primary function is as a fieldwork site for researchers studying native ecology. It is Australia’s largest box-gum grassy-woodland and is the only area of its kind free from invasive foxes, rabbits, goats, deer and hares. With the help of partners and dedicated volunteers, the natural habitat is restored and protected.

Biodynamic Wines

Biodynamic Wines

Organic, biodynamic and vegan wines have been gaining more attention in recent years. Check out Lark Hill Winery in the hills just above Canberra for a triple hit. Fans of Riesling, Chardonnay and Pinot noir will enjoy this chick location in the hills above Canberra where shale and clay soils let these hardy grapes thrive. Enjoy a few glasses by the open fire at the intimate cellar door. The zesty whites and dark cherry reds won't disappoint. Regular wine tastings are available several times a week.

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