Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo just signed an executive order to study the reliance on plastic waste and its impact on Rhode Island’s natural resources.

The executive order will create a task force that will include environmental groups, marinas, relevant industries, state agencies and state lawmakers. The governor stated that the order aims to reduce the reliance on single-use plastics throughout the Ocean State.

The Narragansett Times has more:

From the shores of Scarborough Beach, Governor Gina Raimondo Monday signed an executive order to study reliance on plastic waste and its impact on Rhode Island’s natural resources. The executive order specifically will create the “Task Force to Tackle Plastics,” a body that will include environmental groups, marinas, relevant industries, state agencies and state lawmakers. According to Raimondo, the order is taking aim at reducing reliance on single-use plastics throughout the state.

"We must commit to a more sustainable future,” said Raimondo. “Since I've been governor, we've taken tremendous steps to protect our environment and preserve our state's natural beauty. I believe that if we work together, we can end our reliance on single-use plastics and ensure a greener future for our kids.”

"Through this Executive Order and the establishment of the Task Force to Tackle Plastics, we will collaborate with all stakeholders - environmental advocates, industry, large retailers and small businesses, communities, municipalities, the General Assembly and state agencies - and innovate for sustainable solutions, technologies, and alternatives to enable consumers and businesses to change their behavior,” Raimondo added.

Read the full article here.