A local councillor is spearheading a push to ban single-use coffee cups following data revealing their prevalence as litter near a popular beach strip. The motion, presented at a Noosa Council meeting, has garnered widespread support from organizations across the region.
Councillor Amelia Lorentson is advocating for an industry-led shift away from disposable coffee cups. The initiative, if adopted, could lead to significant cost savings for businesses annually by promoting reusable alternatives.
Lorentson highlighted the staggering statistics of over 1.8 billion discarded coffee cups in Australia each year, emphasizing the environmental impact of these non-recyclable items. Waste audits conducted in 2023 pinpointed coffee cups as the most common litter item along beach boardwalks and other public areas.
The proposed ban aligns with Noosa Council’s efforts to promote sustainable practices and reduce plastic pollution in the community. Lorentson emphasized the importance of creating a conducive environment for businesses to voluntarily transition away from single-use cups, echoing successful initiatives in other regions.
Plastic Free Noosa program coordinator, Jen Sharpe, commended a recent pilot program showcasing resealable coffee cups at a local festival as a step towards wider adoption. The aim is to leverage this positive momentum to drive broader community engagement and participation.
Local support for the ban has been robust, with organizations like the Noosa World Surfing Reserve and the Sunshine Coast Surfrider Foundation endorsing the motion. These groups emphasize the urgent need to address plastic pollution and protect the marine environment.
Lorentson’s motion also includes a call for Noosa Council to phase out single-use coffee cups within its own operations. The proposal seeks a detailed report on the initiative’s implementation costs for future council consideration.
The councillor’s approach emphasizes collaboration and voluntary action, aiming to facilitate a smooth transition for businesses towards sustainable practices. The motion was approved by a majority of councillors, signaling a significant step towards reducing plastic waste and promoting environmental stewardship in the community.
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