Darling Harbour's Harbourside to Lead Major Green Roof Sustainability Research Project
Mirvac, the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and RACE for 2030 have joined forces on a two-year study exploring the environmental performance of the new Harbourside precinct, the transformative $2 billion mixed-use development currently taking shape on Darling Harbour's waterfront.
Set to become one of Australia's largest green roof developments within a CBD environment, Harbourside will feature 4,700 square metres of green roofs, landscaped terraces, extensive planting and on-site renewable energy systems. The partnership will examine how these sustainability features perform in a high-density urban setting, providing valuable insights into their ability to reduce energy demand, combat urban heat and support biodiversity.
The project marks a significant step forward in sustainable placemaking and will generate important data to guide future urban developments around the world.
A greener future for Darling Harbour
The redevelopment of Harbourside will dramatically increase the amount of greenery within the precinct. Where the former shopping centre featured limited landscaping, the new development will introduce more than 115,000 native and endemic plants, including over 250 mature trees selected in consultation with First Nations advisers.
The precinct will also deliver more than 10,000 square metres of public open space, including waterfront gardens, walkable public areas and enhanced connections to the foreshore, creating a vibrant destination for visitors, workers and residents alike.
World-leading research in action
The study will be led by UTS researchers from the internationally recognised Plants and Environmental Quality Group. Their work will investigate the combined environmental, social and economic benefits of green infrastructure in dense urban environments.
Using cutting-edge technology and measurement techniques, researchers will assess:
- Urban heat reduction through thermal infrared imaging
- Carbon capture by plant systems
- Biodiversity improvements using environmental DNA sampling
- The impact of green infrastructure on building energy performance
The findings will help fill critical knowledge gaps around how large-scale green infrastructure performs in city centres and provide practical solutions for creating more resilient, sustainable precincts.
Transforming the waterfront
When complete, Harbourside will deliver approximately 260 luxury apartments across a striking 48-level residential tower, alongside 35,000 square metres of premium office and curated retail space.
Designed to reconnect the city with the waterfront, the development will create an accessible and welcoming destination where public spaces, gardens, workplaces, homes and hospitality offerings come together in one of Sydney's most iconic harbourfront locations.
Construction is progressing well, with staged completion of the precinct expected from FY27.