July is the beginning of a new environmentally conscious era for Queensland, as we farewell the use of single-use plastic shopping bags. Business owners and consumers are affected.

Is my business exempt?

No. The plastic bag ban applies to all retailers across Queensland. You are prohibitied from giving lightweight plastic bags, less than 35 microns thick with handles (singlet bags) to customers. Visit www.qldbagban.com.au for more information on the rules.

Can I use my own plastic bags?

Of course, but once they’re gone, that’s it – so make sure you hold on tight to the stash you keep under your kitchen sink.

What can I use instead?

Most big retailers like Coles and Woolworths will charge 15¢ per reusable bag, made from 80 per cent recycled material, and are sturdier than normal plastic bags. There will also be canvas bags for around 99c each, and, there’s plenty of cute recyclable bags in stores and online.

Why get rid of plastic bags?

Over 900 million single-use plastic shopping bags are used in Queensland every year. Some 16 million bags end up as litter. This pollutes the environment, and endangers marine and other wildlife that ingest or become entangled in the bags.

Be environmentally friendly?

The plastic bag ban may be a great time to consider your actions within the home and office. See if you could be making more enviro-friendly decisions. Try purchasing a reusable coffee cup, using less cling wrap around the home, or walking on short trips instead of using the car? The opportunities are endless!