After exploring many options to discourage citizens and retailers from using plastic bags, in 2002 the country of Ireland decided to charge all consumers a small amount of every plastic bag they used to bag their groceries.

The New York Times noted that much of the success in Ireland was do to the will of the people.

The citizens of Ireland wanted to use less plastic bags. During this same time, cloth or reusable bags have become incredibly popular and trendy. Additionally, Ireland is said to have a young population, eager to adopt measures in support of environmental benefits.

As of July 7, 2009, some 2,000 retail stores in Hong Kong will start charging HKD0.5 for each plastic bag provided to consumers.

The government plans to register retailers covered by the regulations; and these retailers include supermarkets, convenience stores, and personal care products shops.