Plastic Free July is a global initiative that encourages individuals and organisations to reduce their use of single-use plastics. As a member‑owned bank, we see this month as an opportunity to support positive environmental action while empowering our community to make simple, meaningful changes.
Every year, Australians send millions of tonnes of plastic to landfill. Much of it comes from everyday items, like coffee cups and food packaging, that are used for minutes but last for centuries. Plastic Free July invites us to pause, rethink these habits, and explore alternatives that are better for our environment and our future.
To learn more about what sustainable innovation looks like in practice, we spoke to Queensland Country Bank Member, Steve Tiley, the CEO/Director and co‑founder of Wandarra, a manufacturer of plastic‑alternative hemp products.
“Environmental challenges demand urgent, practical solutions. That’s why Wandarra is pioneering a circular economy for industrial hemp in North Queensland - linking regenerative agriculture, advanced manufacturing, and low‑carbon products to deliver measurable economic and environmental outcomes,” Steve said.
Wandarra grows industrial hemp and processes it into a wide range of products, from packaging to textiles and even building materials. These plant‑based alternatives offer sustainable options that help reduce reliance on single‑use plastics.
When asked how people can reduce plastic in their day‑to‑day lives, Steve offered a simple starting point, “Be conscious about what you purchase.”
He shared the following practical tips:
- Shopping & Grocery Habits - Choose loose produce instead of pre‑packaged items, and look for products in glass, metal, or cardboard rather than plastic.
- Food & Drink - Carry a reusable water bottle, use a travel coffee cup, and skip plastic straws and cutlery—or bring your own reusable set.
- At Home - Switch to refillable cleaning products or concentrates. Replace cling film with lids, beeswax wraps, or plates.
- Personal Care - Choose bamboo toothbrushes, refillable deodorants, and products with minimal or compostable packaging.
- Delivery & Takeaway - Request no cutlery or extra packaging, and support businesses using eco‑friendly options.
- Recycle Properly - Refresh your knowledge of what belongs in the yellow bin, but remember: reducing and reusing have an even greater impact.
As Steve put it, “Meaningful change begins with actions we control: how we buy, lead, and build supply chains.”
Plastic Free July isn’t about perfection, it’s about progress. Each step we take, no matter how small, helps reduce waste and protect the places we all care about. We encourage our Members to join us this month by making one simple swap and sharing their experience with friends, family, or colleagues. Together, these actions create momentum for long‑term change.