HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0482.230 2024-2026From: John Elkjer - c6
Sent: Tuesday, November 18, 2025 12:08 PM o -: _
To: Council Testimony —
Subject: Testimony if favor of Bill 83 co
Fa —
Aloha Chair and distinguished members of the Council, —
tn My name name is John Elkjer, and I am here today to humbly offer my testimony in.support of Bill 83. 1 believe
this proposed ordinance represents a thoughtful and crucial step forward for Hawai'i County, addressing
the significant challenges posed by disposable plastic and polystyrene waste.
The aspirations outlined in Section 1 resonate deeply. We all see the impacts of disposable foodware and
serviceware — from litter marring our beautiful landscapes to the silent threats of marine pollution and
habitat degradation. This bill offers a clear path towards aligning our practices with the County's Zero
Waste Plan and the State's Aloha+ Challenge, embodying our shared commitment to malama 'aina.
I particularly appreciate the expanded vision of this ordinance. By moving beyond just polystyrene foam to
encompass a broader range of disposable plastic and polystyrene foodware and serviceware, Bill 83
takes a more comprehensive approach. This ensures we are not simply shifting from one problematic
material to another, but genuinely fostering a move towards more sustainable alternatives. The clarity
provided by requiring CMA-certified or BPI -labeled compostable items, or truly reusable systems (Section
20-05-02), is invaluable, ensuring that the solutions we adopt are effective and supported by established
standards.
Now, I understand that any significant change, particularly one impacting our local businesses, can bring
questions regarding practical implementation and costs. It's true that compostable packaging can
sometimes be more expensive upfront than conventional plastics, and businesses may face a period of
adjustment in sourcing these new materials. However, I believe it's essential to view these initial
investments through a broader lens, considering the substantial economic and practical impacts of our
current waste management trajectory.
One of the most pressing concerns for our county is the future of waste disposal. Our current landfill
capacity is finite, and the specter of needing to site and construct a new landfill looms large. The cost of
such an endeavor is astronomical — we are talking about hundreds of millions of dollars, a massive burden
that would ultimately fall on our taxpayers. This is not just a theoretical figure; it's a very real financial
obligation that we are actively trying to postpone or avoid.
When we consider the increased cost of compostable packaging to businesses, it is an investment that
directly helps us mitigate, and perhaps even defer indefinitely, the far greater expense of a new landfill.
Every ton of waste diverted from our landfills due to sustainable packaging choices is a ton that doesn't
contribute to that looming multi -million dollar construction bill. In essence, the slightly higher per -unit cost
for sustainable packaging becomes a collective saving for the entire community, preventing a far larger
drain on public funds.
Moreover, beyond the direct financial savings of avoiding a new landfill, there are intangible yet significant
economic benefits. A cleaner environment enhances our tourism appeal, supports local industries like
fishing and agriculture, and contributes to the overall well-being and health of our residents —factors that
create a more resilient and attractive economy for everyone. The education program outlined in Section
20-05-05 will also be key in helping our community and businesses navigate this transition together. !iH
Comm. Ref. To:
Ref. Date V 9l
While there will undoubtedly be adjustments, the one-year implementation timeline (Section 8) offers a
reasonable period for businesses to adapt, and the provision for undue hardship exemptions (Section 20-
05-03) provides a necessary safety net.
In conclusion, I see Bill 83 not just as an environmental measure, but as a prudent economic decision. It's
about choosing to make a manageable, strategic investment now, rather than facing an overwhelming and
unsustainable financial burden in the future. It's about building a stronger, healthier, and more sustainable
Hawai'i for generations to come.
I respectfully urge your favorable consideration of this important bill.
Mahalo nui loa.
John
Sustainable
Island Products
Corporate Office
73-5590 Kauhola St., Ste A
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
(808) 769-4905
sustai nableislandproducts.com
John Elkier
CEO
(808) 769-1966
john@sustainableislandproducts.com