Requires certain State-funded construction projects to utilize plastic construction materials that contain certain amounts of postconsumer recycled content.
This bill impacts several areas of state law by placing requirements on the use of materials in publicly funded construction projects. It seeks to ensure that public infrastructure investments contribute to environmental sustainability. By enforcing the use of recycled materials, the bill also aims to encourage manufacturers and suppliers to increase the production and availability of plastic products with recycled content. This initiative is expected to lead to a gradual shift towards more environmentally friendly construction practices across the state.
Senate Bill S3802 requires that certain state-funded construction projects utilize plastic construction materials that contain specified amounts of postconsumer recycled content. The legislation mandates that for projects initiated one year after the bill's effective date, plastic construction materials must contain at least 10% postconsumer recycled content for the first two years and 15% thereafter. This initiative aims to promote recycling and reduce plastic waste within state projects, aligning with broader sustainability goals of the state of New Jersey.
Notable points of contention regarding S3802 may center around the feasibility and the economic implications of the new requirements. Critics might argue that mandatory use of recycled materials could lead to increased project costs, especially if suitable recycled materials are not readily available or would significantly raise overall project expenses. The bill does, however, address potential concerns by including exemptions where the cost of incorporating such materials exceeds 25% of the project costs, thus attempting to balance environmental goals with economic realities.