The milestone marks the first time three hotels in one region have reached Gold status simultaneously, setting a new benchmark for sustainable tourism

Crystalbrook Collection has set a new benchmark for sustainable tourism in Australia, with all three of its Cairns properties - Crystalbrook Flynn, Crystalbrook Riley and Crystalbrook Bailey - achieving EarthCheck Gold Certification simultaneously this month. 

The milestone marks the first time three hotels within Australia have reached Gold status at the same time - a significant moment for both the leading sustainably-led luxury hospitality group and Cairns as a destination.

EarthCheck is one of the world’s leading scientific benchmarking, certification and advisory groups for sustainable travel and tourism. Its Gold Certification is awarded after five consecutive years of independent, science-based assessment across key operational areas including energy, water, waste and community impact - making it one of the most rigorous sustainability standards in global tourism.

Across the Cairns portfolio, Crystalbrook Collection has delivered measurable environmental gains, including a 15% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions since 2023, a 14% reduction in energy consumption, and a 7% reduction in landfill waste.

Crystalbrook Flynn recorded a 21% reduction in emissions, saving more than 845,000 kg CO₂-e, while Crystalbrook Bailey achieved a 19% reduction in energy use, and Crystalbrook Riley showed reductions in both energy and emissions. On a per guest night basis, all three properties outperformed the EarthCheck Regional Average level for energy and emissions. Furthermore, Crystalbrook Bailey also performed better than the EarthCheck Regional Leader level (the highest performance tier) for energy and emissions.

Stewart Moore, EarthCheck CEO and Founder said the achievement marks a significant milestone for the industry: “EarthCheck Gold Certification represents more than five years of consistent, independently verified performance. For three hotels in one region to achieve this simultaneously is a significant accomplishment, and a strong example of long-term commitment to sustainable tourism in practice.”

The achievement comes as sustainability continues to shape travel decisions globally, with destinations like Cairns - home to the Great Barrier Reef - under increasing focus to balance tourism with environmental responsibility.

Across the three properties, sustainability initiatives include operating a single-use plastic free environment, removing plastic straws, water bottles and bathroom amenity bottles, with more than four million plastic bottles saved from landfill to date. Recycled and upcycled materials are used throughout, from wooden key cards to recycled paper hangers.

Crystalbrook is also committed towards sourcing 80% of fresh produce locally, within a three-hour radius of each hotel, supporting local producers while reducing transport emissions.

Crystalbrook Collection Cairns Area General Manager, Carl Taranto said the milestone reflects a long-term shift in how the group approaches hotel design and operations: “Achieving EarthCheck Gold across all three Cairns properties simultaneously is a significant milestone for Crystalbrook, but more importantly, it reflects the long-term commitment we’ve made to Responsible Luxury. For us, sustainability isn’t a standalone initiative - it’s embedded across every part of the business, from how our hotels are designed and operated through to the experience we offer our guests. This recognition is the result of that consistent approach over time.”

Tourism Tropical North Queensland (TTNQ) CEO, Mark Olsen added the achievement reinforces Cairns’ position as a leader in sustainable tourism: “As a region, Cairns is already experiencing the impacts of climate change, which has sharpened the tourism industry’s focus on sustainability and long-term resilience. Achievements like this reflect the proactive steps being taken by operators on the ground - not only to reduce environmental impact, but to ensure the region continues to thrive for future visitors and the local community.”