Environmental advocates are trying to raise more awareness of plastic pollution. The NY/NJ Baykeeper group conducted a study in 2016 that found plastic in more than 75 samples pulled from the New York-New Jersey Harbor, research that helped influence New Jersey’s plastic bag ban that went into effect in May. Now, the organization is looking for more ways to fight plastic in an effort to encourage people and businesses to adopt environmentally friendly behaviors. This week, it teamed up with a Brazilian group heading a global expedition, Voice of the Oceans. Advocates say it’s an opportunity to encourage people and businesses to adopt environmentally friendly behaviors.
The state is also taking other measures to prevent plastic pollution. Starting in January 2024, manufacturers will no longer be able to use polystyrene packing peanuts. And New Jersey lawmakers are taking things a step further with a producer responsibility bill aimed at reducing harmful materials used to package items. State Sen. Bob Smith (D-Middlesex) says that’s a natural follow-up to the plastic bag ban.
