Environment (Recycling)

This bill prohibits the sale, distribution, or import of products or packaging that make deceptive recyclability claims (like using the chasing arrows symbol) unless the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) determines the product is widely recyclable. The DEP must create a list by January 2027 identifying materials that are recyclable in the state, based on whether they are collected by curbside recycling programs covering at least 60% of New Jersey’s population and routinely used to make new products. Products meeting the DEP’s criteria can display recyclability symbols, while others cannot. The bill includes exemptions for federal requirements, composting labels, and a transition period for manufacturers until 2027.

This bill limits shipping box sizes for large online retailers (annual NJ sales ≥$1 million) and major retailers (75,000+ sq ft, 50+ employees) in New Jersey. It requires boxes to be no larger than twice the volume of the product shipped, with exemptions for consumer electronics (e.g., computers, TVs) and compliance with USPS/private carrier minimums. Violations trigger civil fines of $250-$500 per offense, with daily penalties for ongoing violations, enforceable by state agencies or courts.

This bill requires all New Jersey state entities (including agencies, universities, and offices) to separate and recycle specific materials - aluminum, corrugated cardboard, glass, paper, and plastic - from waste generated at their owned, leased, or operated buildings. State entities must establish collection procedures, contract with licensed recyclers, and provide accessible recycling bins, signage, and education for both employees and the public. The law excludes state parks/forests using a "carry-in, carry-out" trash program. The Department of Treasury, with the Environmental Protection Department, must create compliance guidance within 180 days and ensure all state branches follow the requirements.

New Jersey's S 670, the "Toxic Packaging Reduction Act," requires plastic packaging producers to gradually reduce plastic use by 50% over 10 years (starting at 90% of baseline after 2 years). It mandates that cardboard packaging sold in the state must contain 75% recycled content after 2 years. The bill creates a Toxic Packaging Task Force to identify harmful chemicals in packaging and recommend restrictions. This directly affects plastic producers selling packaging or products in New Jersey, excluding medical devices, food packaging, and certain industrial materials.