Market coordinator Lisa McPherson said the committee is currently in the early stages of developing a plan which will be launched in line with Port Macquarie-Hastings Council’s Plastic Free July Program. 

The program aims to encourage the community to reuse, recycle and help reduce the use of plastic bags across the Hastings region.  

“We’re very excited to be working within that campaign alongside other groups in the region,” Lisa said. 

Lisa said the committee plans to officially launch its environmentally friendly plan in the month of July. 

In the lead up to the launch, Lisa said committee members will be talking to stall holders and encouraging feedback from the community for ideas to implement. 

“We’ll be talking to stallholders about what they can do and whether they’re open to using environmentally friendly containers or those which are recyclable, she said. 

“Perhaps some stallholders could encourage people to bring their own reusable mugs.”

Lisa said she welcomes all ideas from the public to help contribute to the finished plan. 

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council will also have a stall at the July market and invite community members to chat to them about waste reduction and other environmentally friendly initiatives. 

Lisa said with 200 stallholders, there are many small business entities which can be reached with the environmentally friendly message. 

“It’s about changing your habits,” she said. 

“In society we’ve come to expect things to be provided to us, including at the supermarket where we are provided with bags,” she said. 

“I think it’s become ingrained with customer service. 

“However if we are prepared to take a different approach as consumer, we will find we can continue to enjoy our shopping experience with very little harm to the environment.” 

As the Laurieton Foreshore Markets is located right on the water, Lisa said it is even more important for people to pick up after themselves and be aware of the potential harm to the environment. 

“We don’t want any rubbish ending up in the water and causing harm to birds and wildlife,” she said. 

Lisa said she is generally really proud that stallholders do the right thing in ensuring the area is left clean after the event. 

In the future, the committee will look at implementing green and yellow bins. 

“I think it’s important for people to first be educated about what to put in each of these bins, so there is no risk of contamination,” Lisa said. 

For the first time in many years, Lisa said the May 20 market will have mini pony rides for the whole family to enjoy. 

The markets are on every third Sunday at Bruce Porter Reserve from 8am.