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Sydney, Australia, October 2024. At Mad Monkey, sustainability isn’t just a goal—it’s a movement. With eco-conscious travelers at heart, we’re stepping up our game and leading the way in creating sustainable travel experiences across all our properties. The latest triumph? Our Mad Monkey Coogee Beach hostel has proudly achieved Level 2 in Hostelworld’s Staircase to Sustainability program, paving the way for our other locations to follow suit.

What is Level 2 Sustainability?

Hostelworld’s Staircase to Sustainability outlines four key pillars that hostels must master to achieve sustainability certifications: Sustainable Management, Socio-Economic Impact, Cultural Impact, and Environmental Impact. Achieving Level 2 means we’ve demonstrated a strong commitment across all these areas. Additionally, we go beyond the basics to make a tangible impact on both the local and global environment. At Mad Monkey, hostel sustainability is a centerpiece of our efforts.

For Coogee Beach, this achievement reflects the hostel’s dedication to sustainable business practices, community support, and eco-friendly purchasing. Furthermore, we engage with local culture—all while delivering an unforgettable experience for our guests.

How Mad Monkey Coogee Beach Leads in Sustainability

Here’s how our Coogee Beach property exemplifies Level 2 compliance:

1. Sustainable Management

We’ve implemented a clear sustainability strategy, measuring and documenting our progress, and ensuring our team members are fully trained. Guests are encouraged to give feedback, which we actively incorporate to improve our sustainability efforts. Plus, legal compliance is top priority, and all documents are readily available to maintain hostel sustainability.

2. Environmental Responsibility

At Coogee Beach, we’ve made eco-friendly purchasing a priority. We’ve switched to biodegradable cleaning products, reduced plastic in our bathrooms and kitchens, and are sourcing products with recyclable or returnable packaging. We’ve also installed systems to measure energy and waste consumption. Moreover, we make sure to reduce, reuse, and recycle wherever possible. Our team is committed to conserving water and protecting local biodiversity—no small feat in a bustling beachside location. This contributes greatly to hostel sustainability.

3. Support for the Local Community

Coogee Beach fosters close relationships with local businesses and encourages guests to engage with the community. We work with local vendors and support community groups, providing spaces for local entrepreneurs to showcase their products. Whether it’s local art, food, or crafts, our hostel ensures backpackers also get a true taste of Coogee’s vibrant culture. This community focus is integral to our hostel sustainability approach.

4. Cultural Impact

To enrich our travelers’ experience, we provide information on the local heritage and cultural significance of Coogee and surrounding areas. Guests can access this information in-hostel and digitally through our website and social media. Plus, we educate guests on respectfully visiting sensitive sites and leaving no trace. These measures support our cultural impact and overall hostel sustainability.

Coogee Beach Sets the Example for All Mad Monkey Properties

With Coogee Beach setting the bar high, we’re working to bring all Mad Monkey hostels up to Level 2. This is part of our bigger plan to become a leader in sustainable hostels worldwide, ensuring that eco-conscious backpackers can enjoy amazing travel experiences with a clear conscience.

As of writing, Mad Monkey Coogee Beach is the only hostel in Sydney to reach Level 2, making it a true trailblazer in hostel sustainability.

We’re excited to expand these initiatives, train team members, refine our environmental strategies, and engage more with local communities at each Mad Monkey property. From energy conservation to zero plastic goals, each hostel will have a tailored roadmap to reach Level 2, and Coogee Beach has provided us with a shining example of what’s possible for hostel sustainability.

Why This Matters for You, The Traveler

Travel is fun, but it can leave a huge environmental footprint. However, at Mad Monkey, we’re making it easier for you to explore the world while also protecting it. Staying at a sustainability-focused hostel means you’re actively participating in preserving natural environments, supporting local communities, and reducing waste. Becoming part of hostel sustainability efforts enhances your travel experience.

If you’re someone who wants to travel with purpose, Mad Monkey hostels offer the perfect balance of adventure, community, and sustainability. When you choose us, you’re not just getting an amazing place to stay—you’re helping lead the charge in creating a more eco-friendly travel industry.

Join the Movement

With Mad Monkey Coogee Beach officially reaching Level 2, we’re now more driven than ever to elevate the sustainability standards across all our locations. From Southeast Asia to Australia, we’re making sure that backpackers can have epic experiences without compromising the planet. Stay tuned as we continue to roll out more initiatives and push to get those Level 2 badges across the globe.

Ready to #JoinTheMadness and travel sustainably? Book your stay at Mad Monkey Coogee Beach or any of our hostels and be part of the change. Let’s make travel better for everyone—and for the planet. Every booking supports hostel sustainability efforts worldwide.

About the Author

Full-fledged marketer, adventurer, and lifelong learner. The half Filipina, half mermaid serving as Mad Monkey's Global CSR Manager.