New Jersey businesses can start preparing now for implementation of a new law, which takes effect May 4, 2022, and ends the use of single-use plastic carryout bags and polystyrene foam food service products at retail stores and food service businesses. The use of single-use paper carryout bags will also be prohibited at grocery stores over 2,500 square feet. Plastic straws will be limited to by-request-only beginning Nov. 4, 2021.
The NJ Business Action Center, the NJ Department of Environmental Protection, and the NJ Clean Communities Council are working together to help communities and businesses understand and comply with the law. On July 16, 2021, Melanie Willoughby, Executive Director of the NJ Business Action Center, presented an overview of the law, a discussion of frequently asked questions, an easy-to-read chart explaining what businesses are affected and how to comply, and showcased many other resources that are available at Business.NJ.gov to help you help your businesses.
