I don't get that many six packs and even fewer sixes of cans but I just finished off a six of Dales Pale Ale that I picked up a few weeks ago when I was over to the other side. Apparently, they are actually called six pack rings or six pack yokes if you believe the internet. After I ripped off the last one, I automatically got out the scissors and cut each loop and every ring. Probably hadn't done that in the best part of a decade. Time was there was big news out east about how all manner of beasties (like seals and shit hawks) were getting stuck in the damn things and meeting an utterly unnecessary demise as a result of people drinking beer and chucking the damn things away. It's part of the global problem of marine litter which really deserves a more dignified and serious name.

Even though there are the inevitable contrarians and they likely have a half life that is way shorter than when it was news, it takes two seconds. Cut each loop before you recycle it and you can curse the parasite-ridden dump seagulls with a clear conscience.