Why do stores charge for plastic bags?

In August 2014, California became the first state to enact legislation imposing a statewide ban on single-use plastic bags at large retail stores. The bill also required a 10 cent minimum charge for recycled paper bags, reusable plastic bags, and compostable bags at certain locations. read more

De León, who has two plastic bag manufacturers in his district, initially opposed Padilla's bill. But he inserted into it $2 million from the state bottle-and-can recycling fund. It would be available for loans to makers of single-use plastic bags so they could retool for thicker reusable bags. read more

Shoppers are charged 5p for every new plastic bag they use at large stores in England. The charge applies only to shops or chains with 250 or more full-time employees. Plastic bags at airport shops or on board trains, planes or ships, are not included, and neither are paper bags. read more