Program Helps Businesses Transition from Single-Use Plastics

Published on 06 May 2025

Businesses in Mount Isa are taking up the challenge to ditch single-use plastic with the help of the Plastic Free Places program and Mount Isa City Council.

The program provides free assistance to food retailers, helping to make the transition away from single-use plastics as simple as possible.

“We know that there are many business owners who want to make changes, but they simply don’t have the time to research the best options available to them. That’s why we’re thrilled to be supporting this program,” Mount Isa Mayor Peta MacRae said.

The program, run by peak not-for-profit organisation The Boomerang Alliance, has worked with thousands of businesses to eliminate over 30 million single-use plastic items, including coffee cups, takeaway containers, and other food ware items. 

“Many hospitality businesses are using far more plastic than they think. We can fix that! Even for businesses who are already plastic free, we can take them to the next level, helping them to reduce waste and packaging costs. We make it simple and easy to achieve,” program coordinator Jo Stoyel said.

“Our local cafes are such an important part of our community. Their small changes make a real difference.”

Cr MacRae said: “Plastic Free Places is a fantastic program full of information to help local food businesses, and with announcements of further plastic items to be banned in Queensland, I urge those business owners to reach out and make the most of the program.”

To find out more or to join, visit www.plasticfreeplaces.org/cq-join.