New Jersey Bans Single-Use Plastic Bags
Environmentally conscious consumers have long been toting groceries and other items home from markets in reusable bags. Food retailers, too, have stepped up in recent years by selling tote bags or charging for paper bags at checkout to encourage customers to be more earth-friendly. Still, the use of plastic bags and other wasteful takeaway packaging remains prevalent throughout the food industry.
That’s all about to finally change when a new law takes effect statewide in May 2022 fully banning single-use plastic bags in all retail stores, grocery stores, and food-service businesses. Paper bags will also be prohibited in grocery stores larger than 2,500 square feet, as well as at large retailers like Target and Walmart. The ban further applies to polystyrene food containers, cups, and other items. Bag Up NJ, an outreach campaign developed by the New Jersey Clean Communities Council, will help educate consumers and businesses on the impact of the new legislation.