The state’s “nickel-per-nip” program has generated more $4.2 million for Connecticut cities and towns in its first full year, according to the head of Three Tiers for Connecticut and the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of Connecticut, Inc.
The state law passed in 2021 imposes the 5-cent surcharge on each 50 ml “nip” container sold in Connecticut.
According to the organization, each municipality receives 5 cents for each nip sold within its borders during the preceding six months, paid in April and October. “This week checks amounting to $2.3 million are being sent to Connecticut municipalities representing nip sales from April 1, 2022, to September 30, 2022,” the organization said in a statement.
“Proposed by Three Tiers for Connecticut and passed by the General Assembly in 2021, the program is designed to help cities and towns provide for the collection and proper disposal of 50 ml” bottles, the statement noted.
Three Tiers for Connecticut is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization and represents major wine and spirits wholesalers in Connecticut, as well as suppliers and retailers.
“This program has over-performed our expectations in its first year, and we’re thrilled about it,” said Lawrence F. Cafero, Jr., president and treasurer of Three Tiers for Connecticut and executive director of Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of Connecticut, Inc., in the statement. “Now, as intended, that money generated by the environmental fees is in the hands of our cities and towns, many of which are using those dollars to keep their roadsides, waterways and public spaces litter-free.”
Since the first payment was sent to towns in May, Connecticut municipalities have been using the funding for a number of litter-reduction efforts. Some towns have used the funding to support recycling coordinator positions, while others have partnered with local non-profit organizations on litter cleanups.
“This simple program is a national model and it’s making a real difference in our state,” said Cafero. “Connecticut’s wine and spirits industry recognized that litter from our 50 ml nip containers was a problem that needed to be addressed, so our members stepped up with a solution that provides direct funding to municipalities so they have more resources to combat litter. We’re excited to watch these nickels get put to work.”
