Protect Our Sacred Waterways: Support Legislation to Reduce Plastic Waste

We invite you to join us in supporting important pieces of NJ state legislation aimed at reducing plastic pollution and protecting our environment, including Skip the Stuff (S3195) which is up for a vote tomorrow, 10/10/24, at the Senate Environment and Energy Committee meeting.  

ACT NOW: We urge you to sign this faith perspective letter in support of S3195!

Waterspirit reverberates that our waterways are not just resources; they are sacred spaces that nurture our spirits and sustain our ecosystems. Unfortunately, plastic waste continues to threaten these vital waterways in New Jersey, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities. This full-circle of plastic pollution is not solely an environmental issue; it is a manifestation of environmental racism that impacts the health and well-being of those who often lack necessary resources. The interconnectedness of all life calls us to recognize how plastic pollution harms not only our natural environments but also the communities upon which they depend. Those living near polluted waterways often face health risks, diminished quality of life, and loss of cultural connection to otherwise sacred spaces.

We urge you to sign this letter in support of S3195, make calls to your Senators, urging them to support S3195!

1. Skip the Stuff (S3195) UP FOR A VOTE IN SEN ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY COMMITTEE

This bill aims to make single-use utensils and condiments available only upon customer request in food take-out orders. By preventing automatic provision, we can significantly reduce plastic waste while also saving restaurants money. It’s a simple yet effective way to encourage mindfulness about our consumption habits.

2. Extended Producer Responsibility (S3398) UP FOR DISCUSSION IN SEN ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY COMMITTEE

Sponsored by Senator Bob Smith, this bill places the responsibility for reducing plastic packaging on producers, aiming for a 50% reduction in plastic waste while eliminating harmful toxins in packaging. This proactive approach shifts the burden away from consumers and encourages manufacturers to adopt sustainable practices.

3. Beverage Container Deposit Act (S3147)  NO ACTION YET

Sen. Mukherji's bill establishes a deposit and refund system for beverage containers, promoting their return to manufacturers for reuse or recycling. This initiative not only reduces litter but also fosters a culture of recycling, allowing us to take tangible steps toward a cleaner environment.

What You Can Do

Now is the time to act! We urge you to sign this letter in support of S3195, make calls to your NJ Senators, urging them to support S3195!

Water Advocate Caller: Hello, I’d like to urge Senator (YOUR SENATORS NAME) to support S3195 which is up for a vote and on the Senate Environment and Energy Committee meeting agenda! I support responsible practices that value water as the source and sustainer of all life.    

Your voice matters, and together, we can create a cleaner, healthier environment for all living beings.

Let’s honor the sanctity of our waterways by taking action today. Connect with us directly at water@waterspirit.org for more information on how you might get involved.

Together, we can make a difference!