Single Use Coffee Cups Program · Report

PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING                                            9 DECEMBER 2025


Risk & Opportunities
Risk
•   There is risk of inconsistent outcomes if participation is staggered. As this is the first step towards
    a bigger program, it will focus on working with the willing and early adopters to gain momentum.
    A review should be conducted once the trial period is completed to gather lessons learned and
    agree on next steps.
•   There is reputational risk should Noosa not be seen as a leader in sustainability and in keeping
    with its Different by Nature ethos.
•   There is a potential risk that businesses perceive a loss of revenue, food safety concerns and
    increased work loads. Clear and accurate information from credible sources will help to mitigate
    this risk.
•   There is a risk of delays in reusable-cup supply, lost cups, or low return rates which can increase
    costs. The use of credible service providers with a demonstrated track record of success in other
    areas can help to manage this risk.
Opportunities
•   Reducing single-use coffee cups reduces waste volumes entering landfill, thereby contributing
    to reduced landfill operational costs and methane emissions that contribute to climate change.
•   Single-use cups are a type of takeaway packaging that contaminate waterways when not
    disposed of correctly; eliminating them reduces marine debris and coastal litter.
•   More businesses transition to reusable systems and gain financial returns and competitive edge
    for demonstrating sustainability, growing the circular economy and custodianship of Noosa’s
    natural environment.
•   Demonstrating, in practice, Noosa’s ethos of being Different by Nature, exemplifying the tenants
    of becoming a regenerative and sustainable place to visit and live.
•   Leading by example to catalyse a transition away from single use items both in QLD and across
    the country (other LGAs already looking to Noosa for leadership in this – Byron and Surf Coast
    have reached out to PFN to learn from Noosa’s experiences).


Human Rights
Human Rights Compatibility Statement
In developing this Report, the subject matter has been considered in accordance with the
requirements of the Queensland Human Rights Act 2019. It is considered that the subject matter
does not conflict with any human rights and supports a human rights approach to decision making
by Council. Council representatives will endeavour to act and make decisions under this report in a
manner that is compatible with human rights. This report should be read in conjunction with
Council’s Human Rights Policy.




Consultation
External Consultation - Community & Stakeholder
Tourism Noosa Plastic Free Noosa program coordinator
Internal Consultation
Departments consulted: