Brisbane’s score rose from 75.23 to 81.19 points – a 7.92% ranking increase from 2024 – in the index, which recognises leadership in renewable energy, sustainable transport and smart infrastructure, placing Brisbane among the Top 4 in the Asia Pacific, alongside Melbourne, Singapore and Goyang.

Adding to this achievement, Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA) has earned EarthCheck Silver Certification, awarded to projects and destinations that demonstrate a commitment to best-practice environmental performance benchmarks in areas like energy, water, and waste management.

As Brisbane’s official Convention Bureau, driver of major events and Regional Tourism Organisation, the milestone supports BEDA’s core role in driving sustainable growth across events, tourism and the wider visitor economy.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the accolade speaks to Brisbane’s ongoing commitment to sustainability.

“This is more than a ranking; it shows Brisbane is a city that values people and the planet,” Cr Schrinner said.

“Brisbane is the most biodiverse capital city in Australia and our sustainability is also what has helped shape our reputation as our nation's lifestyle capital.

 “We’re building a more sustainable city, from cleaner streets, to bustling parks, bikeways, pedestrian bridges and smarter infrastructure like our fully electric Brisbane Metro bus rapid transit system.

“We will continue to invest in the programs and projects that make Brisbane a more sustainable place for everyone.”

BEDA CEO, Anthony Ryan said: “In recent years, Brisbane has made remarkable strides in sustainability. Today, we’re proud to be one of the world’s most sustainable destinations.

“Through our partnership with EarthCheck, BEDA is leading the way; 80% of our head office energy comes from GreenPower, 58kg of organic waste is diverted from landfill, and we’ve supported 229 businesses in the Lord Mayor’s Business Awards Environmental Sustainability category since 2008.

“Our EarthCheck Silver Certification also demonstrates BEDA is leading by example, empowering Brisbane’s industries towards a more sustainable future.

“This achievement reflects our city’s collective drive - from renewable energy, green transport and sustainable buildings to cutting waste and championing inclusion. Together with industry, we’re embedding sustainability across events, tourism and business supply chains.”

Brisbane’s strong performance reflects long-term investment and the collective commitment of government, business, and the community, demonstrated through initiatives such as:

• Brisbane Airport Corporation - the first airport in Australia to achieve net zero emissions and receive Level 4 Airport Carbon Accreditation.
• Best practice visitor management in environmentally and culturally sensitive areas including Mt Coot-tha, Fort Lytton and St Helena Island, and Mulgumpin (Moreton Island).
• BEDA’s inaugural Carbon Kickstart program, helping small-to-medium businesses in the visitor economy measure and reduce their carbon emissions.
• BEDA’s EarthCheck Silver certification and transparent sustainability reporting.
• A growing number of Brisbane tourism businesses achieving or maintaining EarthCheck certification, including:
• Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (EarthCheck Platinum)
• Tangalooma Island Resort (EarthCheck Gold)
• Crystalbrook Vincent (EarthCheck Silver)
• Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Sofitel Brisbane Central, and Novotel Brisbane South Bank (Ecotourism Australia Certified)

Discover more on BEDA’s Sustainability Hub: https://beda.brisbane.qld.au/resources/sustainability-hub

Find out more about BEDA’s Carbon Kickstart Program: https://beda.brisbane.qld.au/resources/tourism-industry-training/carbon-kickstart