READY TO GO PLASTIC FREE?

How are you funded?

Plastic Free Cairns is a project managed by the Boomerang Alliance, under our Plastic Free Places Program. Our organisation is externally funded through private donors interested in seeing action to reduce plastic waste. Plastic Free Cairns itself is funded by the Qld State Government .

What are the benefits of becoming a member?

Apart from the personalised advice and support discussed above, members who join and eliminate at least one of the target six items will receive:

1. Discount offers from major suppliers ( see current offers)
2. A listing in the 'Member Directory' on our website
3. A badge for your website that identifies you as a member
4. Direct promotion on our social media pages
5. Promotion of the campaign from our partners

What are the benefits if I eliminate all my single-use plastic?

Members who eliminate all six of our target items will become a certified 'Plastic Free Champion' and receive the following additional benefits:

1. A specially designed and printed 'Plastic Free Champion' sign and a web badge
2. A listing on the 'Plastic Free Champions' page on our website
3. Promotion of your business through our media channels
4. Listings on our regular newsletter to our individual members

What plastic items will you help me eliminate?

We will help you eliminate six single-use plastic items; water bottles, coffee cups/ lids, straws, food ware (cutlery, cups, lids etc.), takeaway containers and plastic bags. We chose these items specifically as they are commonly found in the litter and waste streams, and pose significant risks in the environment. They also have readily available solutions. These items form the basis of our Plastic Free Champion system and give members specific targets to work towards. However, we can assist you with other plastics as well, just ask when we come to chat to you.

What happens after I join?

Once you join, we'll make a time to come sit down with you, check out your current products, find alternatives and solutions that work for you, and identify where you can get them. In most cases, you'll be able to stick with your current supplier. We'll bring catalogues and samples so you can see and try out alternatives. We can help you with signage, staff training and give you easy solutions to reduce costs. And we're on hand to assist you through the entire process.

Am I required to commit to eliminating all my plastic?

You do not have to commit to eliminating all your plastic to become a member. How much and what you want to reduce or eliminate is totally up to you! Even if you just want some tips, we can help. We will never pressure you to do more, instead we will support you and celebrate what you have achieved along with you.

What businesses are able to join?

Businesses must be located within Cairns Regional Council borders to join. We accept a variety of food retailers such as cafes, restaurants, bars, bakeries, butchers, juice bars, produce vendors etc. under the program. This is because we specialise in the following single-use plastic items - straws, water bottles, coffee cups & lids, takeaway containers, food ware (cutlery, cups, bowls etc.) and plastic bags. These items are problematic, often found in the litter stream, and have available alternatives to their use. We don't accept general retailers under the program, or businesses outside of Cairns.

What if my business is already plastic free?

Great! We can certify you as a Champion right away. You'll get access to our discounts and promo benefits. We can also check your packaging for any hidden plastics (they are common and very sneaky) and we might also be able to help find you some even better solutions. You have nothing to lose!