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In an effort to reduce plastic waste, Hoboken aims to ban restaurants from handing out single-use items, like plastic utensils and condiment packets, in deliveries unless a customer specifically requests them.

Following the city council’s unanimous vote at its June 5 meeting, Hoboken is among the first municipalities in New Jersey to adopt a “Skip the Stuff” ordinance. If Mayor Ravi Bhalla signs the measure, the law will go into effect Sept. 1. That would give businesses a 60-day window to comply.

Councilwoman Tiffanie Fisher, the measure’s lead sponsor, said she was 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.”

In 2018, Hoboken was one of the first of municipalities in New Jersey to prohibit single-use plastic bags. It preceded the statewide ban that went into effect in 2022.

Co-sponsor and Council President Jen Giattino added, “Reducing waste has always been a priority for me. The ‘Skip the Stuff’ ordinance not only lessens our environmental impact but also offers environmental benefits for our small businesses. It’s a win-win for Hoboken.”

Councilwoman Emily Jabbour, also a co-sponsor, believes the move makes “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,” she said.

Part of a larger movement

Hoboken’s ordinance is part of a larger movement organized by the nonprofit Clean Water Action to build support for a statewide policy that would apply to all food service businesses.

According to the organization, the estimated 40 billion single-use plastic utensils discarded daily in the U.S. contribute to both local litter and the global plastic pollution problem. Over time, these plastics break down into tiny particles that can then enter our bloodstream through drinking water, food, using personal products and even just breathing.

While the Garden State prohibits single-use plastic bags and most paper bags, there’s no policy for disposable cutlery, condiments, or other food and beverage accessories.

As a result, some municipalities have put measures in place prohibiting food providers from offering single-use cutlery. New York City, California and Washington state have similar bans.

Marta Young of Clean Water Action said the group is “thrilled that Hoboken has joined the growing list of New Jersey cities adopting the ‘Skip The Stuff’ ordinance.”

“Our wonderful restaurants will save money annually by not purchasing unnecessary items that typically end up in junk drawers or the trash, reducing pollution,” says Young. “Plastic breaks down into tiny micro-pieces that enter our bodies through what we eat, drink, and breathe, making us sick. Hoboken is taking a significant step forward as a leader and protector of our beautiful Garden State.”

Retired NBC New York journalist Brian Thompson is an advisory member for Beyond Plastics. He commented, “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. 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.”

Both Young and Thompson worked with the sponsors of Hoboken’s bills on draft legislation.

What it means for businesses

The ordinance received support from the business community, as well.

Roxanne Earley, executive director of the Hoboken Business Alliance, said, “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.”

The city council, administration and HBA said they are committed to working together to educate all stakeholders prior to the law going into effect to ensure all parties are well-informed and prepared for the changes ahead.

The ordinance defines single-use food service items as beverage splash sticks, beverage stirrers, condiment packs, plastic utensils, napkins, straws and other items designed for one-time use.

It would not apply to self-service stations within any food provider’s premises or at a food or grocery store. Businesses would also need to switch the default settings on third-party ordering apps to not provide plasticware and utensils, instead making the customer opt-in to receiving the items.

Establishments that violate the law will first get a warning with 30 days to correct the issue. After that, they face fines ranging from $100 to $500.