Plastic carrier bags: Why they were meant to save the planet

The plastic carrier bag has become something of a symbol for the problems caused by plastic pollution.

It's why many countries around the world have brought in a plastic carrier bag charge.

But according to the family of the man who created it, Sten Gustaf Thulin, his design was supposed to help the planet.

The Thulin family makes no money from the sale of the bags and believe he would've been shocked and upset to see what it has become.

So where did things go wrong for the plastic carrier bag?

BBC Environment Reporter Laura Foster takes a look and learns why actually cotton and paper bags can be even worse for the environment.

Video by Laura Foster