Cafes participating in the Responsible Cafes program cut down the use of disposable coffee cups by offering a discount to their customers who bring in reusable takeaway coffee cups. 

Inside Out at Lighthouse owner Gabby Baker said the response at her business to the Responsible Cafes program had been positive.

“We are trying to support and encourage our customers to bring their own [reusable takeaway] cups,” she said.

Mrs Baker said the Responsible Cafes program was in line with the cafe’s socially responsible ethos.

She said the initiative benefited the planet and got people talking.

About 20 businesses in Port Macquarie, Wauchope and the Camden Haven have signed up to the program.

Mrs Baker encouraged even more cafes to get on board.

“It’s a little thing we can all do,” she said.

FOUR Espresso has backed the Responsible Cafes program.

FOUR Espresso cafe owner Emma Maslen said they decided they could do their part in making a change on wastage.

“It might be a small change but in the long run it will make a huge difference if everyone jumps on board and participates in bringing their own cup,” she said.

“Whether it be a keep cup, or a simple coffee mug from the office, it makes a difference to our environment and future generations.”

The Responsible Cafes website said the goal was to change the game on single-use waste by nurturing a culture of reuse. 

Their target is takeaway coffee cups.

Click here to find a participating business or learn more about Responsible Cafes.