HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0482.228 2024-2026From: Christopher Dipnarine
Sent: Tuesday, November 18, 2025 4:23 AM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: In support of Bill 83
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SUMMARY: Key Improvements Needed for Bill 83 (Hawai'i County)
Goal: Strengthen the bill so it actually reduces waste, protects the environment, and is workable fort'
businesses and the community.
1. Invest in Composting Infrastructure With Clear Goals & Timelines
The bill requires businesses to adopt certified compostable foodware, but Hawai'i County lacks the
commercial composting capacity needed to properly process these materials.
To ensure real environmental benefit.. notjust higher costs and landfill waste... the county must invest in
composting infrastructure tied to clear benchmarks.
Recommended Fix:
Establish specific target goals for building composting capacity.
Include a timeline for when compostable material processingwill be online.
Phase in compostable requirements only as each milestone is reached.
Allow certified compostable or recyclable fiber -based alternatives during the transition.
This positions the bill for long-term success and ensures compostables actually get composted —not
buried.
2. Strengthen Definitions for "Reusable" and "Compostable"
Current language is too broad, making compliance inconsistent.
Recommended Fix:
Define minimum durability standards for "reusable."
Require CMA/BPI certification for compostables with visible labeling. I S Comm.
Ref. To:
Ref. Date 0 1 9 2025
Provide a clear list of allowed and prohibited materials to avoid loopholes.
3. Create a Clear, Fair Compliance Timeline
A one-year deadline may be unrealistic for many small businesses.
Recommended Fix:
Implement a phased rollout tied to infrastructure milestones:
Phase 1: Education +voluntary compliance
Phase 2: Polystyrene ban
Phase 3: Compostable/reusable requirements once processing capacity is confirmed
Offer more time for small and rural businesses.
4. Add Business Support & Cost -Relief Options
Compostable alternatives are significantly more expensive.
Recommended Fix:
Create a county bulk -purchase program for compostables
Offer grants or subsidies to small businesses
Provide hardship extensions up to 12 months
Support reusable systems with technical assistance
5. Clarify Enforcement & Education Requirements
Fines are listed, but enforcement procedures are not.
Recommended Fix:
Require an education -first approach
Provide one written warning before any fine
Standardize signage & education materials
Identify the responsible enforcement department
6. Support Reusable Systems (The Most Sustainable Option)
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The bill allows reusables but does not actively promote them.
Recommended Fix:
Provide incentives for reusable packaging systems
Support shared washing facilities and dishwashing hubs
Recognize standardized reusable containers
7. Separate Retail Packaging Rules From Prepared Food Service
Retail items like raw meat and eggs should be treated differently from prepared foodware.
Recommended Fix:
Maintain exemptions for raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs
Create separate rules for retail packaging to avoid confusion and food -safety conflicts
OVERALL SUMMARY STATEMENT
Bill 83 has strong environmental intent, but to succeed it must be paired with strategic investment in
composting infrastructure, clear timelines, strong definitions, business support, and phased
implementation tied to measurable progress. These refinements help ensure the bill actually reduces
waste, avoids unintended costs, and creates a workable, island -appropriate path toward a more
sustainable Hawai'i County.
Regards
Christopher Dipnarine
Founder & Executive Director
4MyCiTy Inc.
443 615 9502
wecare@4mycity.us
https;1 4mycity usus