In an attempt to reduce the amount of single-use plastic bags in the environment, England recently introduced a 5p charge for each one, leading some to wonder: Why pay when you can find other less costly alternatives? 

And with that thought, a new trend emerged with users taking to social media to admit it might be cheaper to just pinch a cart than pay for the bags. 

Why pay 5p for a bag when you can get a whole trolley for £1? pic.twitter.com/T0vCGmysql

— The Fastest SpermⓂ️ (@J0RDLEE) October 10, 2015

5p for a carrier bag? Our local supermarket only charges £1 for a whole trolley!

— The Wurzels (@TheWurzels) October 8, 2015

For those of us across the pond, a charge for single-use plastic bags is nothing new, with some places even banning them completely. Last year California became the first state to ban them from grocery and convenience stores, and since then the list has grown to include other states and major cities across America.

However, instead of stealing carts from stores most Americans have opted for the safer alternative of purchasing branded totes, which is not only better for the environment, but great news for our industry as it provides an opportunity to sell more reusable promotional bags.

What do you think of stores charging for single-use plastic bags? Vote now!