The Hoboken City Council unanimously approved (9-0) a “skip the stuff” ordinance on second reading last week as part of an effort to reduce single-use plastic waste.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
Sponsored by 2nd Ward Councilwoman Tiffanie Fisher and co-sponsored by Council President Jen Giattino and Councilwoman-at-Large Emily Jabbour, the ordinance mandates that restaurants only include items like plastic utensils and condiment packets in deliveries if customers specifically request them.
Hoboken now joins Red Bank and Garwood as pioneers in this environmental initiative in hopes that others will follow in shot order.
“I am thrilled to see Hoboken continue to lead by example in environmental advocacy. This ordinance not only supports our city’s culture of sustainability but also encourages a broader shift towards more conscious consumption. It’s a simple yet effective step that empowers consumers and benefits businesses,” Fisher said in a statement.
With over 40 billion single-use plastic utensils discarded annually in the U.S., Giattino indicated that there was a sense of urgency behind this local legislation.
“Reducing waste has always been a priority for me. The ‘Skip the Stuff’ ordinance not only lessens our environmental impact but also offers economic benefits for our small businesses. It’s a win-win for Hoboken,” she said.
Jabbour also highlighted the practicality of the ordinance.
“When I reviewed the ‘skip the stuff’ ordinance, it made perfect sense. In an era where food orders are easily customized, adding an option to decline unnecessary plasticware is a no-brainer. It saves businesses money and protects our environment. I’m excited to see Hoboken continue leading New Jersey in smart environmental initiatives.”
Hoboken Business Alliance Executive Director Roxanne Earley indicated that they are in full support of the initiative.
“This policy aligns with our goals of fostering sustainable practices among local businesses and reducing overhead costs on single-use items. We appreciate the city’s effort to design this initiative with a focus on education first, ensuring a smooth transition for businesses and consumers alike.”
Fisher also expressed gratitude to Brian Thompson, retired journalist and Beyond Plastics Advisory Board member, and Marta Young from Clean Water Action for their help with drafting the legislation.
“Skip the stuff is not only a great win for Hoboken restaurants as well as the city’s environment, it also promises to be a leading edge moment for statewide passage of a similar law,” Thompson added.
“As the most populous city in New Jersey so far to pass this ordinance, Hoboken is showing the entire state that we can reduce use of toxic plastics.”
If signed by Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla, the law will go into effect on September 1st, giving businesses a 60-day window to comply.
You know a Hoboken ordinance against face diapers is long overdue.
It would have stopped Ravi from trying to impose a $300 fine on residents who didn’t subscribe to anti-science.
It could also help Hoboken when the pro-Hamas/Antifa/BLM crowds come here to start trouble. So many benefits. I would like Emily Jabbour to sponsor it.
INCEL horse still at it?
Time to go live in Florida with your boy Ronnie De
You sound jabbed and need another booster. Was it the reference to science that upset you, Nancy? Lots of people never bought into the Fauci-Pharma lies. Well, you did, hook, line and sinker.