R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-38-1: Definitions.

For the purposes of this chapter, the following terms shall have the following meanings:

(1) “Connector” means a holding device constructed of plastic rings and used to hold several beverage containers together, or other similar plastic device used for the same purpose.

(2) “Degradable material” means material that, upon exposure to natural elements, is broken down by biological, chemical, photochemical, or other physical processes to a particle size and chemical composition that may be assimilated harmlessly and aesthetically into the environment, without leaving a hazardous residue or byproduct.