Sustainability

Cairns Ecofiesta

Ecofiesta is a music festival, a food festival, a children’s festival and an environmental expo all rolled into one big smorgasbord of fun. Free entry!

Aerial view of Saltwater Creek catchment

Catchments & Reef resilience

Council is committed to ensuring that water run-off from river catchments in our region does not negatively impact the Great Barrier Reef lagoon.

Clean Creeks

A little litter is a big problem. Did you know that 100,000 marine mammals die every year around the world due to plastic pollution? Learn how you can help care for our land and sea.

A group of people in hi-vis vests, holding a Clean Up Cairns sign.

Clean Up Cairns

Let's protect the Reef from plastic pollution! Join a community clean-up in a suburb near you this September.

Group of eight community members post with wheelbarrows and tools at their local park

Resources and community groups

Contribute to your local sustainability goals with these resources and community groups.

Aerial photo of forest and a winding river. Text reads "Cairns Climate Change Strategy 2030"

Climate Change

We're working to reduce emissions, manage climate risks, adapt to impacts and create opportunities for a smarter green economy.

Image featuring aerial photo of the coral reef around Green Island with blue water around it

Reef Guardian Council

Cairns Regional Council undertakes a range of projects to support reef health as a member of the Reef Guardian Councils program.

Image shows the Cairns city and Trinity Inlet from high over the ocean, with rays of sunshine washing over the city as the sun sets behind the ranges. Text reads "State of Environment Report 2022".

State of Environment Report

Council’s State of Environment Report outlines our environmental and urban sustainability initiatives and performance.

Children playing with a solar panel.

Grants and support

These are some of the ways Cairns Regional Council can support your community group to deliver sustainability projects.

Last Updated: 25 August 2025

Latest News > All News

What's happening in your suburb this month? image

What's happening in your suburb this month?

Friendlier and safer community spaces, coastal protection and smart water meter upgrades are being delivered across the Cairns region....

Council Projects & Services
22 October 2026
2027 Australia Day Awards nominations open image

2027 Australia Day Awards nominations open

Every year, Cairns Regional Council recognises how important it is to acknowledge the people around you who are making a...

General Updates
22 October 2026
Young innovators lead the way on sustainability image

Young innovators lead the way on sustainability

Cairns' next generation of environmental leaders have presented innovative sustainability projects directly to Councillors, showcasing practical solutions to challenges ranging...

Environment & Sustainability
20 October 2026