HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0482.151 2024-2026Testimony in Strong Support of Bill 83 Catjm Y CLERK
Regarding the Elimination of Plastic Food Service Packaging �OU T Y C F tiAWill
Submitted by: Elizabeth Elkjer
Date: 10/2/25 zil7.a p+QV -5 PIA 9: 57
Aloha Chair, Vice -Chair, and Members of the Council,
My name is Elizabeth Elkjer, and I am testifying in strong support of Bill83 to eliminate the use of plastic
food service packaging in Hawai'i County. I come before you today as a mother, an environmental
advocate, and a professional working in the food service and packaging industry. I wear these three hats
every day, and together they shape my deep conviction that this bill is not only necessary, but long
overdue.
As a mother, I want my children to grow up in a Hawai'i where our beaches are clean, our ocean is
thriving, and where the values of malama'sina are more than just words —they're reflected in the
policies we enact. It's heartbreaking knowing that I will have teach my kids about the damage our
convenience -based choices have caused, and I want to be able to tell them that we did something about
it.
As an environmentalist, I've seen firsthand the devastating impacts of single -use plastics on our marine
ecosystems. We know plastic never really goes away— it breaks down into microplastics that end up in
our fish, our soil, and even our bodies. We live on an island. Ourwaste doesn't disappear; it stays here, or
worse, ends up in the ocean we all cherish. Passing Bill83 is one of the clearest, most directways we can
reduce that harm.
And as someone who works in the food service/packaging industry, I want to emphasize that this change
is feasible. The technology and alternatives already exist and this concept has been proven in Maui and
Honolulu Counties. Compostable packaging is not only available but becoming more cost -competitive
every year. 1 work with businesses that are already makingthe transition — not because they're being
forced to, but because their customers are demanding it, and they see the long-term benefit.
I understand the concerns about cost, especially for small businesses. But I also know that smart,
phased implementation — paired with education and support —can make this transition achievable.
Many local businesses are already showing leadership in this space, and with the County's support, the
entire food service industry can move forward together.
Passing Bill83 is a powerful statement that Hawai'i Countyvalues its environment, its people, and its
future. Let's be bold enough to take this step, notjust for ourselves, but for our keiki and their keiki.
Mahalo for the opportunity to testify and foryour leadership on this issue.
Respectfully,
Elizabeth Elkjer
Vice President of Sales, Sustainable Island Products
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