How NJ Businesses Are Going Green in 2026

Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword in New Jersey's business community—it's becoming standard practice. From restaurants eliminating single-use plastics to manufacturers switching to renewable energy, Garden State businesses are proving that going green is good for the bottom line. Here's how local companies are leading the charge.

The State of Green Business in NJ

New Jersey has aggressive sustainability goals: 100% clean energy by 2050, and the business community is stepping up. A recent survey found that 72% of NJ small businesses have implemented at least one sustainability initiative in the past two years, up from 52% in 2022.

What's driving the change?

• Customer demand (especially younger consumers)

• Cost savings from efficiency improvements

• State incentives and rebates

• Employee recruitment and retention

• Supply chain requirements

Restaurant Industry Leaders

Farm-to-Table Movement

Restaurants across the state are prioritizing local sourcing. By buying from New Jersey farms, they reduce transportation emissions while supporting local agriculture. Notable examples include The Greenhouse in Princeton (opening 2026), which grows produce on-site, and Agricola Eatery in Princeton, which has pioneered farm-direct partnerships.

Eliminating Single-Use Plastics

Ahead of state regulations, many restaurants have voluntarily eliminated plastic straws, bags, and containers. Some have gone further:

• **Sustainable Sips (Multiple locations)** - Uses only compostable packaging

• **The Green Fork (Jersey City)** - Zero single-use plastic, brings-your-own-container discount

• **Local chains** - Many are switching to plant-based takeout containers

Food Waste Reduction

Food waste is a major source of methane emissions. Innovative restaurants are tackling this through:

• Composting programs (often partnering with local farms)

• AI-powered inventory management

• "Ugly produce" purchasing

• Donation partnerships with food banks

Retail Innovations

Refill and Package-Free Stores

A new wave of zero-waste stores is emerging:

• **The Refillery NJ (Montclair)** - Bulk goods, cleaning supplies, and personal care products without packaging

• **Green Living (Hoboken)** - Sustainable home goods and refill station

• **Multiple pop-ups** - Zero-waste markets appearing at farmers' markets statewide

Secondhand and Consignment

The resale market is booming, driven by both environmental and economic factors:

• Upscale consignment shops in Bergen and Essex counties

• Electronics refurbishment shops extending device life

• Furniture resale stores diverting items from landfills

Manufacturing and Industrial

Solar Adoption

New Jersey ranks 6th nationally in solar capacity, and businesses are a big reason why. Commercial solar installations have increased 40% since 2022, with warehouses and manufacturing facilities leading the way.

Case Study: Camden Packaging

This family-owned packaging company installed a 500kW rooftop solar array that now provides 80% of their electricity. The investment paid for itself in 4 years through utility savings and state incentives.

Electric Vehicle Fleets

Delivery and service companies are electrifying:

• Multiple plumbing and HVAC companies have switched to electric service vans

• Local delivery services using electric cargo bikes in urban areas

• Major employers adding EV charging for employees

Professional Services

Green Buildings

Office buildings across New Jersey are pursuing LEED certification and other green building standards. Features include:

• High-efficiency HVAC systems

• LED lighting with occupancy sensors

• Rainwater harvesting

• Green roofs and living walls

Remote Work Policies

Perhaps the biggest green initiative is one that emerged from necessity: remote work. By reducing commuting, NJ businesses have collectively prevented millions of tons of emissions. Many are making hybrid work permanent.

State Incentives Available

New Jersey offers numerous incentives for businesses going green:

• **Clean Energy Program rebates** for efficiency upgrades

• **Solar renewable energy certificates (SRECs)** for solar installations

• **Electric vehicle incentives** for fleet conversion

• **Tax exemptions** on solar equipment

• **Low-interest loans** for green improvements through NJ EDA

Challenges Remain

It's not all smooth sailing:

• Upfront costs can be prohibitive for small businesses

• Supply chain limitations for sustainable materials

• Consumer education needed on value of sustainable options

• Inconsistent municipal policies on things like composting

How to Support Green Businesses

As a consumer, you can drive change:

• Seek out businesses with sustainability commitments

• Ask questions about sourcing and practices

• Be willing to pay slightly more for sustainable options

• Leave reviews praising green practices

• Share information about eco-friendly businesses

Looking Ahead

By 2030, sustainability will likely be table stakes for New Jersey businesses. Those starting now are building competitive advantages, developing expertise, and positioning themselves as leaders.

The message from the market is clear: green isn't just good for the planet—it's good for business. And New Jersey companies are proving it every day.

Want to find eco-friendly businesses near you? Browse JerseyTopTen's listings and look for businesses highlighting their sustainability practices.