New Jersey has taken a significant step toward reducing marine debris. Last week, Gov. Phil Murphy signed Bill S-864, which prohibits the use of single-use plastic and paper bags in all stores and food service businesses statewide beginning May 2022. The measure also bans disposable food containers and cups made out of polystyrene foam, and starting November 2021, mandates that eateries provide single-use plastic straws only upon request.

“Plastic bags are one of the most problematic forms of garbage, leading to millions of discarded bags that stream…