Allows stores, and certain other establishments, to provide and sell compostable plastic bags and recycled paper bags to customers.
Impact
The introduction of A4029 is poised to enhance the state's recycling efforts by permitting the sale of compostable and recycled bags. Compostable bags that meet the ASTM D6400 standard are designed to decompose under specific conditions, thus reducing the environmental footprint typically associated with traditional plastic bags. By allowing grocery stores to sell recycled paper bags, the bill intends to improve recycling rates and promote the reuse of materials which benefits the environment and can lead to reduced landfill waste.
Summary
Assembly Bill 4029, also known as A4029, is designed to amend existing legislation regarding the use of carryout bags in the State of New Jersey. Specifically, it allows grocery stores, food service businesses, food banks, and similar establishments to provide and sell compostable plastic bags and recycled paper bags to customers. This change aims to offer environmentally friendly alternatives to single-use plastic and paper bags, which have been the subject of considerable environmental scrutiny due to their impact on waste and pollution.
Contention
The bill has sparked dialogue regarding the balance between environmental sustainability and practical consumer habits. While proponents argue that A4029 aligns with environmental goals by reducing reliance on traditional plastic bags, critics may raise concerns about the cost implications for businesses and consumers, as well as the effectiveness of compostable plastics in municipal waste systems. Additionally, there could be discussions around ensuring proper consumer education regarding the disposal and use of these new bag options to maximize their environmental benefits.
Amends applicability of law prohibiting sale and distribution of plastic and paper carryout bags to food banks and food pantries; appropriates $600,000.
Eliminates prohibition on provision of single-use paper bags by grocery stores for certain orders for five years; allows packaging options for grocery orders; requires program for disposition of reusable bags for grocery orders.
Eliminates prohibition on paper bags, and allows packaging options, for certain grocery orders for three years; requires program for disposition of reusable bags; extends timeframe for use of certain bags by food banks and pantries.
Eliminates prohibition on paper bags, and allows packaging options, for certain grocery orders for three years; requires program for disposition of reusable bags; extends timeframe for use of certain bags by food banks and pantries.
Eliminates prohibition on paper bags, and allows packaging options, for certain grocery orders for three years; requires program for disposition of reusable bags; extends timeframe for use of certain bags by food banks and pantries.
Eliminates prohibition on provision of single-use paper bags by grocery stores for delivery orders; requires grocery stores and third party grocery delivery services to establish program for reuse of reusable bags used for delivery orders.
Eliminates prohibition on provision of single-use paper bags by grocery stores for delivery orders; requires grocery stores and third party grocery delivery services to establish program for reuse of reusable bags used for delivery orders.
Eliminates prohibition on provision of single-use paper bags by grocery stores for delivery orders; requires certain retailers to repurpose cardboard boxes if feasible.
Eliminates prohibition on provision of single-use paper bags by grocery stores for delivery orders; requires certain retailers to repurpose cardboard boxes if feasible.
Eliminates prohibition on provision of single-use paper bags by grocery stores for delivery orders; requires certain retailers to repurpose cardboard boxes if feasible.