In New Jersey, Senate Bill S3195 represents a commendable step towards realizing the principles of waste reduction necessary to plan for a livable future. The bill seeks to eliminate excessive single-use plastic utensils and condiments, thereby mitigating the pervasive scourge of plastic pollution that blights the sacred beaches and ecosystems we love to enjoy. This pollution directly impacts our waterways which are not just essential to our ecosystems; NJ waterways hold cultural and spiritual significance for communities.

However, even as we applaud the strides made by Senate Bill S3195, we must acknowledge its inherent limitations in effectively addressing the magnitude of the single-use plastics crisis. To truly meet this existential threat, we must strengthen the bill with amendments that ensure clear verbiage, foster innovation, and prioritize waste reduction. Join us in raising our voices by sending and sharing this letter to Senator Smith, prime sponsor of the legislation and Chairperson of the Senate Environment & Energy Committee!