Widespread plastic pollution, challenges recycling plastic and the growing public health threats cause by microplastics took center stage in Trenton on Earth Day. State lawmakers held a joint hearing of the Senate and Assembly environment committees Monday to discuss the plastics problem and possible solutions.

The committee members heard expert testimony from health professionals, who warned of the issues posed by microplastics; and they heard from environmental advocates, who urged stricter regulations to phase out plastic use.

One proposal that drew significant discussion was the idea of a state bottle-return program, similar to programs in New York, Connecticut and elsewhere. It’s an idea that New Jersey lawmakers almost committed to in the 1980s, only to reverse course in favor of other recycling policies.

Sen. Bob Smith (D-Middlesex) said he thinks it’s time for New Jersey to take the step. “We have to recognize that, finally, the current recycling law is not enough,” Smith said.