Plastic is one of the most widely used materials in the world, with applications ranging from packaging to construction.

However, with increasing awareness about the detrimental impact of plastic on the environment, there is a growing need to reduce the usage of plastic. To this end, many companies and retailers have started charging for plastic bags or stopped providing them altogether. This has led some individuals to resort to fraudulent means to obtain free plastic.

This article aims to explore the various methods people have used to scam free plastic and the consequences that come with it.

Theft from stores

One of the most common methods people use to obtain free plastic is to steal it from stores. This can be done by either walking out of the store with a plastic bag without paying for it or by taking several bags while paying for only one.

This is not only illegal but also deprives the store of revenue. Additionally, stores are likely to install security cameras and employ security personnel to deter theft, which can lead to legal consequences and even imprisonment if caught.

Faking a purchase of goods

Another fraudulent method of obtaining free plastic is by faking a purchase of goods. This involves taking a plastic bag from a store and pretending to have made a purchase, even though no payment was made.

Some people have been known to pick up old receipts from the store’s trash and use them to make it seem as though a purchase was made. This kind of scam also carries a risk of being caught and can lead to legal charges being pressed against the perpetrator.

Creating counterfeit coupons

Counterfeit coupons are another common method of obtaining free plastic. Some individuals have created fake coupons for free plastic bags and use them to get as many bags as they need.

Unfortunately, this practice not only deprives the store of revenue but can also lead to losses for the store if they discover the scam too late. This can result in legal charges being pressed against the perpetrator, which can lead to fines and imprisonment.

Faking a disability

Some people have gone to the extent of faking a disability to obtain free plastic bags. They may pretend to need the bags to carry medical equipment or use the bags for other purposes.

This not only exploits the goodwill of retailers who provide free bags to disabled customers but can also be seen as an abuse of disability rights. It is also illegal and can lead to legal repercussions if caught.

Consequences of using fraudulent means to obtain free plastic

There are several consequences that come with using fraudulent means to obtain free plastic. Some of these consequences are legal, while others pertain to the individual’s reputation and standing in society.

Legal consequences can range from fines to imprisonment, depending on the severity of the infraction. Furthermore, criminal charges can have long-lasting effects on an individual’s employment prospects, housing, and access to credit.

Additionally, using fraudulent means to obtain free plastic can lead to social consequences. The individual may get a reputation as someone who engages in unethical behavior, which can tarnish their image in society.

This can result in a loss of trust and respect from family, friends, and colleagues. Furthermore, the individual may be seen as a threat to the well-being and security of society, which can lead to ostracism and alienation.

Conclusion

While it may be tempting to use fraudulent means to obtain free plastic, it is not a wise or ethical choice. Engaging in such acts not only promotes illegal behavior but also harms the environment.

There are several alternative options for reducing the usage of plastic, such as using reusable bags or opting for biodegradable materials. Individuals who are caught using fraudulent means to obtain free plastic can face serious legal and social consequences, which can have long-lasting effects on their reputation and standing in society.

Thus, it is best to weigh the pros and cons of any action before taking it and always err on the side of caution.