Hoboken City Council Adopts Progressive “Skip the Stuff” Ordinance

Hoboken is the Third New Jersey City to Pass This Critical Legislation

Hoboken, NJ, June 12, 2024 — In a unanimous vote, the Hoboken City Council has passed the “Skip the Stuff” ordinance, a progressive measure designed to reduce single-use plastic waste. Lead sponsored by Councilwoman Tiffanie Fisher and co-sponsored by Council President Jen Giattino and Councilwoman Emily Jabbour, this ordinance mandates that restaurants only include items like plastic utensils and condiment packets in deliveries if customers specifically request them. Hoboken now joins Red Bank and Garwood as pioneers in this environmental initiative, setting a precedent for other cities across New Jersey.

“I am thrilled to see Hoboken continue to lead by example in environmental advocacy,” states Councilwoman Tiffanie Fisher. “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.”

With over 40 billion single-use plastic utensils discarded annually in the U.S., Council President Jen Giattino highlights the environmental urgency behind this decision: “Reducing waste has always been a priority for me. The ‘Skip the Stuff’ ordinance not only lessens our environmental impact but also offers economic benefits for our small businesses. It’s a win-win for Hoboken,” says Giattino.

Councilwoman Emily Jabbour also highlighted the practicality of the ordinance: “When I reviewed the ‘Skip the Stuff’ ordinance, it made perfect sense,” Jabbour comments. “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.”

Roxanne Earley, Executive Director of the Hoboken Business Alliance, further supported the ordinance: “The Hoboken Business Alliance fully supports the ‘Skip the Stuff’ ordinance,” Earley explains. “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.”

Fisher also expressed gratitude to Brian Thompson, retired journalist and Beyond Plastics Advisory Board member, and Marta Young from Clean Water Action for their help with drafting the legislation.

“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.” says Thompson.  “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.”

“Clean Water Action 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.”

If signed by Hoboken’s mayor, the law will go into effect on September 1st, giving businesses a 60-day window to comply. The City Council, the administration, and the Hoboken Business Alliance are committed to working together to educate all stakeholders prior to the law going into effect. This cooperative effort will ensure that all parties are well-informed and prepared for the changes ahead, paving the way for a greener future in Hoboken.