BREAKING: A critical bill to ban disposable plastic and polystyrene foodware in Hawaii County has just advanced with a decisive 7-1 vote by the County Council’s Environmental and Natural Resources Management Committee. This pivotal decision propels Bill 83, Draft 2 to the full council, with urgent implications for local businesses and environmental sustainability.
The legislation, if passed, aims to dramatically reduce single-use plastics by prohibiting food providers and county facility users from distributing disposable plastic or polystyrene items including cups, plates, and containers. Instead, businesses will be mandated to switch to reusable or certified compostable alternatives. This change is expected to have significant environmental benefits, but it also raises concerns among local businesses about potential cost increases and practical challenges.
“Compostable containers cost around 40% more than the containers most restaurants use,” warned Stephen Ueda, president and CEO of Suisan Co. He emphasized that this financial burden would ultimately fall on consumers, stating,
“In the end, customers will pay more for the same plate lunch or bento.”
Adding to the debate, Jason Higa, CEO of Zippy’s Restaurants, pointed out a critical gap in local infrastructure:
“Hawaii County does not have a composting facility that can process the containers required under this bill.”
He further expressed concerns about the durability of compostable containers, claiming they do not hold up with local foods, particularly heavier items like Zippy’s signature chili.
The bill does allow exemptions for pre-packaged foods and raw meat packaging, as well as temporary hardship exemptions for businesses. However, it also imposes daily fines for violations, with escalating penalties for special events. The urgency of this measure is underscored by the alarming rate at which Hawaii County’s landfill capacity is depleting. Councilman Matt Kaneali‘i-Kleinfelder highlighted this pressing issue, stating,
“When I started, the landfill was ready for 100 years; now it’s down to 18 years.”
Councilwoman Rebecca Villegas, the bill’s sponsor, defended the legislation against criticism from larger businesses. She remarked,
“I resent the implications that this legislation is a symbolic gesture. This is a viable, certified step forward in authentically aligning the legislation of the county of Hawaii to what we have claimed are the visions, values, and priorities of our county.”
The bill, if approved by the full council, is set to take effect one year post-approval, allowing businesses time to adjust. Meanwhile, the county’s Department of Environmental Management plans to launch an education program to facilitate this transition.
As the conversation surrounding environmental responsibility grows, Edna Ching, chief strategy officer for 7-Eleven Hawaii, called for amendments to allow the use of BPI-certified compostable items that may not be individually marked. She noted that while her company supports the bill’s objectives, this flexibility is crucial for practical implementation.
The urgency of the matter is palpable, as Hawaii grapples with the pressing need for sustainable practices amid environmental concerns. As this vital legislation moves forward, all eyes will be on the full council’s upcoming vote, which could reshape Hawaii County’s approach to waste management and sustainability.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
