Zero Waste SA figures estimated in the first six months of the ban that 200 million plastic bags were stopped from entering landfills and waterways Statewide.

Based on these figures, Port Lincoln, with a population of more than 14,500, is estimated to have saved about 3.68 million plastic bags in the past year.

Possum's IGA manager Kathy Southon said customers had dealt with the ban well and they were now used to bringing their own bags.

She said she was happy with the outcome, as she had been quite conscious of the environment before the ban.

"People have just accepted it, they have been fine; there had been no real complaints from customers and people have learnt to bring their own," she said.

University SA research in November last year reported nine in 10 shoppers take their own bags when shopping and just two in 10 respondents claimed to never use their bags for non-supermarket items, and this positive attitude had been reflected in Port Lincoln.

Double Corner Store manager Paul Richards said the transition had been "very smooth".

The store offers compostable bags but customers did not use them unless they had many items, he said.

"Most customers won't take a bag even if they are offered, so it has worked very well ... the initiative has come from the public."

n By Bonnie Puckridge