Sustainability

One of the first things you'll notice when visiting Parramatta Aquatic Centre (PAC) is the abundance of natural light throughout the building.

The expansive skylights above the indoor pools and splash play area may look like glass, but they are actually made from a lightweight material called ETFE (Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene).

ETFE is commonly used in large-span roofs, skylights and building facades around the world. It filters a significant amount of infrared light, helping to improve energy efficiency by reducing heat gain while still allowing natural light to enter the building. Remarkably, ETFE weighs approximately 1% of the weight of glass.

The material is formed into inflated cushion-like panels that appear transparent from below. Together with natural sunlight, these ETFE roof panels help maintain a comfortable temperature within the pool halls while reducing the need for artificial lighting.

PAC's 358 rooftop solar panels play an important role in the centre's sustainability strategy. While a large aquatic facility requires significant energy to operate, the solar array generates renewable electricity that is returned directly to the grid.

By contributing clean energy and reducing reliance on traditional power sources, the solar panels help support the City of Parramatta's commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

The slope and location of the Parramatta Aquatic Centre (PAC) site mean that stormwater naturally runs downhill rather than soaking into the ground. To help manage this, Council has incorporated three lush rain gardens throughout the site: at the main entrance, behind the covered spectator seating at the 50-metre outdoor pool, and near Pitt Street at the lower end of the site.

Rain gardens collect stormwater from surrounding hard surfaces, temporarily holding and filtering it before it returns to the ground. These systems play an important role in protecting local waterways by reducing pollutants, preventing soil erosion and improving water quality.

The PAC's rain gardens will also provide valuable habitat for native wildlife, including birds and butterflies. They feature a diverse range of Australian native plants, including groundcovers, grasses, climbers and flowering shrubs, adding colour, texture and biodiversity to the landscape.

Essential equipment such as pool filtration, water heating and air conditioning are among the most energy-intensive components of an aquatic centre. Ensuring these systems operate efficiently is critical to reducing energy consumption and environmental impact.

At Parramatta Aquatic Centre (PAC), an integrated centralised plant located in the building's basement helps improve energy efficiency by optimising the management of heating, ventilation and other core building systems.

Other features that support the PAC's environmental performance include:

• The exterior of the Health & Wellness Centre features an automated, naturally ventilated façade that reduces reliance on full-time mechanical air conditioning.

• Most lighting throughout the facility is LED-based, providing a more energy-efficient solution and reducing overall energy consumption.

• Water-efficient fixtures and fittings have been installed throughout the centre.

• Pool covers help maintain water temperatures, reducing the energy required for heating.

• A 125,000-litre water re-use tank collects rainwater from the roof of the Health & Wellness Centre for onsite irrigation and toilet flushing.

More than 95% of the timber used at Parramatta Aquatic Centre (PAC) is Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified. This means the timber has been sourced from responsibly managed forests that meet high environmental, social and economic standards.