History

The New Jersey Clean Communities Council is a 501c3 corporation funded by the Clean Communities Act and private sector donations to implement a statewide program of public information and education that will change the attitudes that cause littering and the irresponsible handing of sold waste.

The Council was organized as an advisory committee to the state Clean Communities Program, following the passage of the Clean Communities Act in 1986. The program was housed in the Department of Environmental Protection’s solid waste division.

By the early 1990s, budget cuts had resulted in the elimination of the state level unit. Determined to pursue its mission, the advisory committee applied for and received nonprofit status in September 1995. By the fiscal year 2000, the Clean Communities Act had been amended to include funding for a nonprofit to manage the statewide education component of the program. The New Jersey Clean Communities Council receives a $375,000 grant after July 1 of each year.

The Council works with the state departments of Environmental Protection and Treasury to oversee the implementation of litter abatement programs in 559 eligible municipalities and 21 counties. The Council provides a clearinghouse for information about litter abatement, forums for the free exchange of ideas, and a voice for its constituents.