Theft is a serious offense, but amidst the myriad of crimes, one stands out as particularly egregious: stealing those 10p carrier bags from supermarkets.
It may seem trivial, but the act of pilfering these bags is nothing short of despicable. And I’m not just saying that because a colleague here at LADbible Towers has confessed to swiping them—it’s been quite entertaining to tease them about it.
Sadly, it’s not just our anonymous colleague who’s guilty. According to polling from BusinessWaste.co.uk, around three in 10 Brits have committed this crime, contributing to a nationwide spree of petty theft in supermarkets.
Some may offer excuses, claiming they already have plenty of bags at home or simply forgot to pay. But let’s not kid ourselves—these are just feeble attempts to justify criminal behavior.
Perhaps some think it’s a minor charge not worth paying, or maybe they see it as a way to rebel against the system. But the truth is, they’re only making matters worse. The money generated from selling carrier bags is intended for charitable causes, and by snatching them without paying, these individuals are depriving those in need.
Those who aspire to contribute to a better world, where their money supports noble causes, understand that paying for carrier bags is the right thing to do.
Mark Hall, a spokesman for BusinessWaste, rightly points out, “If you are part of the 30% who have admitted to nicking one, then technically you’re stealing from charity. It is not a victimless crime.”
The introduction of a charge for carrier bags in 2015, later doubled in 2021, has significantly reduced plastic consumption in the UK. In 2014, a staggering 7.6 billion single-use plastic bags were distributed in England alone. Since the implementation of charges, usage has plummeted by a remarkable 95%.
So, let’s do our part to save the planet and support worthy causes. Paying for carrier bags is a small price to pay for a cleaner environment and a brighter future for all.