Zero Waste Resolution: Kaua'i County, Hawai'i, USA

Kaua'i County, Hawaii

The County of Kaua’i adopted a Zero Waste Resolution calling for 70% diversion by the year 2023 and the incorporation of Zero Waste principles into its Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan.

Action(s) Taken

Zero Waste goals & plans

Population

70,000

Year Enacted

2011

Overview

The county council of Kaua’i adopted a Zero Waste Resolution calling for 70% diversion on the island by 2023. The resolution calls on government agencies, residents, businesses and visitors to adopt Zero Waste practices to help meet the goal. Zero Waste principles will also be incorporated into the county’s Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan.

A local volunteer organization, Zero Waste Kaua’i, is actively pursuing Zero Waste strategies on the island, and works with the county in various ways.

The county offers bus tours called “Road to Recycling” through which they educate the public about local recycling approaches and programs.

Background and Additional Information

The County of Kaua’i was diverting 25% in 2005 and 30% in 2012. The island offers eight drop-off bins for recycling but did not offer curbside recycling as of 2013.

The existing landfill on Kaua’i is projected to reach capacity in the coming years, and the county is in the planning stages for a new landfill as well as a Resource Recovery Park. Citizen groups have actively campaigned against locating a waste incinerator on the island.