Payne and the other delegates spent three weeks in Austria visiting many sites and conducting preliminary contests. The finals were held at Marxe Hall and telecast on PULS4 Austria as well as multiple other international television networks. 

 

Payne was awarded first place for Eco-Beauty Video, the only category acknowledged during the live telecast. Payne also received a Gold Medal in Charity Giving. Other categories included Swimwear, Evening Gown, Interview, Cocktail, National Costume, Talent, and Social Media. 

 

Also involved in speaking and crowning activities at the Miss Earth Coronation was 2014 Miss Earth 1st Runner Up Andrea Neu of the United States. Neu and Payne are Miss Earth's highest ranking U.S. delegates. 

 

The Miss Earth United States Pageant is under new direction in 2016 managed by US Earth Productions, Inc. National activities will be July 31-August 4 in Washington, D.C., including divisions for unmarried girls and women ages 10-32.  

 

Managed by Carousel Productions of the Philippines, Miss Earth focuses on empowering women through fashion, leadership, travel and service opportunities. Delegates advocate for environmental awareness and protection of the Earth while showcasing various tourist destinations. 

 

Visit missearthunitedstates.com for 2016 program information and missearth.tv for information on the international pageant.