Did you know…?
The average plastic bag is used for only 12 minutes, but it can linger in the environment for up to 1,000 years or more.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, more than 380 billion plastic bags, sacks and wraps are consumed in the U.S. every year.
Act locally:
Bring reusable bags to the grocery store instead of using plastic bags. Keep a tote or two by the door or stow them in your car, so you always have one handy when needed.
Help globally:
Single-use plastic bags are a major source of litter. They endanger wildlife in public parks and natural habitats. They are easily blown into local waterways and travel to the ocean, entangling fish, turtles and other aquatic creatures along the way.
Success Story:
Union County launched the #MakeOneChangeUC public education initiative to support the new statewide “Choose to Reuse” anti-litter campaign, aimed at reducing the amount of single-use bags in the waste stream.
Everyone can be part of the success story by making simple, everyday choices that help reduce waste and litter.
Recent News:
Make a Difference by Joining the Rutgers Environmental Stewards of Union County
Union County Residents Can Get “Back to Basics” with New Recycling Video Series
“Reel in and Recycle” to Reduce Litter in Local Waterways (special bins for recycling discarded fishing line now available in County parks)
Pro Tip: Your local recycler will reject containers that are mixed with plastic bags. Carry items from your kitchen to the recycling bin in a reusable bag, tub or basket.