Greater Sydney has evolved within outstanding natural and scenic landscapes. As it grows, strategic planning will manage the effects of urban development to protect, restore and enhance these landscapes, waterways, coastline, natural areas, tree canopy and open spaces. Delivering on these outcomes will require careful management of the environmental, social and economic values of the Metropolitan Rural Area and the Protected Natural Area. A healthy natural environment will be important to improve liveability, create healthy places, and mitigate the effects of climate change. New approaches to water management and urban design will be part of the response to climate change and will help to cool the region, particularly the Western Parkland City.