By reducing and reusing, we can eliminate waste before it is created.

By reducing the amount of waste that you generate and reusing items when possible, you will help save money, energy, and resources for the next generation.

Simple changes you can make to reduce the waste in your home.

• Bring your own shopping bag *
• Bring your own reusable water bottle.
• Say no to single use plastics (straws, cutlery, disposable plates & cups).
• Make a meal plan - slow down and eat at home.
• Start relying on reusable containers.
• Start composting.
• Learn to repair rather than discard.
• Cancel unnecessary mail.

Learn more about source reduction at these websites:

• www.epa.gov/recycle/reducing-and-reusing-basics
• www.nj.gov/dep/dshw/recycling/source_red.htm

Recycling is the last step of the 3 Rs. To learn what should be recycled, click here. 

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Contests for Kids

Congratulations to the 2025 Coloring Contest winner with their "How you can reduce, reuse, or recycle at home."

2026 Coloring Contest.

Plastic Bag Ban

Beginning May 4, 2022, NJ's bag ban takes effect, prohibiting the selling or providing of single-use plastic bags at all retail stores, food service businesses, and grocery stores, as well as paper bags at larger grocery stores.
The law also bans food service businesses from selling or providing polystyrene foam food products. As of November 4, 2021, plastic straws will only be available upon a customer's request.

For more information on the NJ Bag Ban Law, please visit:
https://www.nj.gov/dep/get-past-plastic/

For more information on Business Compliance, contact the NJ Business Action Center: https://business.nj.gov/recent/disposable-bag-ban

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