When kayaking, walking and bicycling in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire I have picked up pounds of plastic trash. This trash  is an issue that needs to be addressed. I have an idea that might help call attention to this problem.  I would like to have a bill filed that would name an “official plastic litter” for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. 

I had thought about plastic bags, but with the number of towns, including my town,  banning them that problem will be greatly reduced.  My next thought was the styrofoam cups used by Dunkin.  But to their credit, the cups  are being phased out this year.  Therefore I would like to nominate the 50ml plastic Fireball Whiskey bottle as the official plastic litter of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. On any given ride or kayak trip I see dozens of these and other small liquor bottles. But by far, Fireball Whiskey with its cheerful bright red cap, is the most visible.  

What I hope to gain from this unusual approach is two fold. First, an official plastic litter will call attention to the issue of plastic fouling the waterways, trails, and  scenic roadways.  It will also call attention to the issue of underage drinking, since I doubt airlines and hotel mini-bars are dumping these small plastic “nip bottles” in public places. It is most likely dumped by those who aren’t supposed to have them in their possession to begin with.

This link talks about individual actions to get rid of trash but I think we need increased awareness on a greater level.  The web site belongs to a friend. 

https://sustainablysimplelife.com/2019/06/15/plastic-removal/

After you sign this, please contact your local state rep and senator and urge them file legislation to make Fireball Whiskey bottles the official state plastic litter of Massachusetts.