100 days until plastic bags hit the bin

There is only 100 days to go before Queensland retailers will legally have to bin the plastic bag.

Plastic shopping bags only have 100 days left in QLD. Picture: Madeline Grace

THERE is only 100 days to go before Queensland retailers will legally have to bin the plastic bag.

The state-wide ban will kick in on July 1, 2018.

Queensland's ban will include all single-use, lightweight shopping bags with handles and a thickness less than 35 microns.

National Retail Association Manager of Industry Policy David Stout said it is important businesses and customers are prepared for when the ban kicks in.

"Whether it's grabbing groceries at the supermarket or picking up dinner from the local takeaway, conventional plastic bags will no longer be available to shoppers,” Mr Stout said.

From May 1, retailers may start providing their shoppers with bagging options that comply with the new laws.

"Retailers who do not comply with the news laws from July 1 face hefty fines of over $6,000 not to mention disruptions to their business and upsetting customers,” Mr Stout said.

"In conjunction with the Queensland Government, the NRA has been conducting workshops across Queensland to ensure that the industry is well equipped to handle the transition.”