The Cairns and Far North Environment Centre in partnership with Tangaroa Blue and Douglas Shire Sustainability Group will be officially launching the 'Think Outside the Bag' campaign this Sunday at the Port Douglas markets.

This will also be the first chance to get the iconic Port Douglas reusable bag — free to the first 200 people. The beautiful bags will also be available for purchase at the Reef Adventure Centre on the corner of Macrossan St. and Grant St.

“Striving for a plastic bag free community makes sense for Port Douglas whose tourism industry is dependent on a pristine natural environment," CAFNEC Project Manager Mindi Tonak said.

"This is a great way for Port Douglas to define itself as the top green tourist destination in Australia.

"Although plastic is responsible for injuring or killing 1 million sea birds and over 100,000 sea mammals each year, fortunately, there are many cost effective alternatives.

"We have been working with the businesses of Port Douglas to reduce the use and the eventual elimination of the single use plastic bag.

"Currently, 22 businesses in the Port Douglas area have gone plastic bag free with more businesses in transition."

The groups will provide free face painting for the kids, a roving plastic bag monster, stickers, information on the campaign and more.

Visit www.cafnec.org.au to find out more information on how you and your business can go plastic bag free or call 4032 1746.