Paper or plastic? In New Jersey, try neither.

The state Legislature on Thursday voted to make New Jersey the first in the country to bansingle-use paper bags in supermarkets along with all single-use plastic bags in stores andrestaurants.Eight other states, including California, New York and Vermont, have bans on single-useplastic bags either in effect now or scheduled to go into effect in the coming years.

You’ve probably seen the #1 recycling symbol on various plastic containers when you’re sorting your recycling. Those containers are made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), also known as polyester. Because PET is strong, lightweight, and easily molded, it is a popular material for packaging a wide range of foods and consumer goods.