A new law aimed at reducing plastic waste has come into effect in the U.S. state of New Jersey, preventing restaurants from automatically including single-use plastic utensils in takeout and delivery orders.
The law, known as the “Skip the Stuff” law, took effect on August 1 and is the latest step by state authorities to reduce environmental pollution after earlier restrictions on plastic bags and polystyrene containers.
Under the new rules, restaurants, food trucks and food delivery services will no longer include plastic forks, spoons, knives, napkins and condiment packets in customers’ orders unless they are specifically requested.
Customers ordering food online will also notice that applications have been programmed to exclude these items automatically. Those who need them will have to select the option during the ordering process.
The law further requires restaurants with seating capacities of at least 10 people to provide reusable cutlery for customers dining on their premises.
However, self-service stations that distribute utensils individually will continue to operate. Schools, healthcare facilities and correctional institutions have also been exempted from the regulations, while food courts have been given until August 1, 2028, to comply.
Authorities say businesses that fail to follow the regulations will receive a warning for their first offence, a fine of 100 dollars for a second offence and 250 dollars for subsequent violations within a 12-month period.
According to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, the initiative is intended to reduce waste and prevent plastic materials from ending up in streets, rivers and other waterways.
Officials believe the move will not only protect the environment but also help businesses reduce unnecessary expenses by supplying only the items requested by customers.
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