Though only a junior at Ramapo High School, Justin Madigan has created an initiative that saves businesses money and is good for the environment.
The Skip the Stuff initiative asks eateries to not automatically include napkins, plastic utensils, and condiment packages in takeout orders.
Justin is a junior commissioner on the Wyckoff Environmental Commission, which is sponsoring the initiative.
"I created a survey asking 16 Wyckoff eateries about their current takeout practices, the challenges they face, and their interest in program," said Justin.
Ten eateries expressed interest, with Benares and Blue Moon, both at Boulder Run Shopping Center, agreeing to participate in Skip the Stuff.
Justin had an "aha moment", which lead to the creation of the initiative, when he opened the takeout meal his father, Michael, brought home from his restaurant, Four Leaves in Park Ridge.
"I took out my own utensils from the drawer and didn't use the plastic utensils and realized how much of what was included in a takeout order went to waste," said Justin. "It's unwanted and unused items.
We can make a huge difference both saving money and saving the environment by not including them."
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