General News
25 June, 2026
Saving cups from dump
MORE than 10,000 single-use cups and lids have stayed out of landfill because of the landmark ‘Douglas Chooses to Reuse’ project.
The project was introduced 12 months ago in June 2025 with funding to start the trial provided by the Queensland Government.
The project, spearheaded by Boomerang Alliance, has rolled out a free reusable cup system across Port Douglas, providing customers with bright blue cups they can borrow and return for free at any participating cafe.
Boomerang Alliance program manager Kellie Lindsay said “it’s easy to feel powerless when thinking about the environment, but the truth is, you aren’t”.
“Simply by choosing a reusable coffee cup each day, you can have a hugely positive impact,” she said. “One of our goals for this program was for the community to make it part of their everyday life and we’re starting to see that happen now.
“It shows that people can and will use the system. And that it can be possible for other communities as well – and even a state-wide system. That’s something we’d love to see.”
Six local cafes are currently participating: Origin Espresso, The Surfy, Nourish, Toast Sandwich Bar and Café Ziva.
Origin Café owner Neo Yang said “for us at Origin Espresso, being part of the program has been a very positive experience”.
“Customers have been supportive and it’s helped start more conversations about sustainability within the community,” he said.
“It’s been great to see the program gradually becoming part of the Port Douglas community,” Mr Yang said.
Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said the program reflected the values of the Port Douglas community.
“Council supports this program because it’s such a simple idea and has huge potential,” she said. “Our community loves our environment and this is a great way of showing it. It shows that we are doers and we love our little community.”
Environment Minister Andrew Powell said the project had already delivered meaningful change in the community.
“The Douglas Chooses to Reuse project is a practical step toward cutting down single use waste, helping to protect our environment and keep Port Douglas beautiful for generations to come,” he said.
‘‘After just a year, it’s great to see the trial. And driven by local cafes, demonstrating that a reuse cup system can work.”
Member for Cook David Kempton said the community response to this new initiative was encouraging.
“I recently visited the Douglas Community Centre and it was great to see them taking part in this initiative to help protect Port Douglas’ stunning natural environment,” he said.
