NO ONE likes being charged extra when they go shopping, so it was no surprise that the 5p plastic bag charge was controversial when it was introduced by the Welsh Government in 2011.

But in the three years since it began, the plastic bag charge has been a runaway success. Most of us have got used to packing a bag for life when we go shopping: 81 per cent of people now regularly use their own bags and food retailers have reported a reduction of between 96 per cent and 70 per cent in plastic bag use.

This reduction has had a positive environmental impact on both a global and local scale. Cutting down the number of plastic bags we use helps to tackle climate change and has also helped to improve the countryside here in Wales by reducing litter and protecting wildlife.

But one aspect of the charge that is sometimes overlooked is that all the money raised goes to good causes.

All those 5p quickly add up and millions of pounds have been donated to charities, community organisations and schools over the last few years.

RSPB received £2.3m through their partnership with Tesco, which has helped fund conservation projects and other vital schemes to protect much loved species of Welsh birds.

Tesco, along with Argos and a number of other businesses, now donate the funds they raise to Keep Wales Tidy who work tirelessly to make sure that our streets, parks, beaches and other public spaces are clean, safe and welcoming.

Smaller, local businesses often set up partnerships with good causes in their areas, which raises money and helps to forge stronger community relationships.

The plastic bag charge is not only driving change in public behaviour but also acting as a valuable fundraising source at a time when charities are struggling in a difficult financial climate.

So, I think it’s worth remembering, when you accidentally forget your own bag and only realise at the checkout, that the money you hand over for a plastic bag is going to a good cause. Next time, why not ask where?