The City's State of the Environment Report [PDF, 3.6Mb] was completed in 2003 and is regularly reviewed as more information becomes available. This is based on data from the air and water quality-monitoring programmes, which are ongoing and are reported quarterly.

There are continuous further trend analyses on biodiversity and the loss of open space, and the effect of waste on the city. A revised State of the Environment report, with the latest information and trends, is expected to be released by 2008. The report is essential for monitoring progress in terms of the City's sustainability agenda, evaluating the success of intervention strategies and reviewing priority issues.

Arising out of the revised State of the Environment report and in response to legislative and other mandates, the department has completed successfully the development of key sectoral policies and plans that it has begun to implement.