HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0482.356 2024-2026KYD, lend dba k Yamada distributorsMY18 An independent leader in packaging and wholesale distribution
P.O. BOX-29669, Honolulu, Hawaii 96820 Phone: (808) 836-3221 Fax: (808) 833-8995
o c7
vz O C J
December 3, 2025 0 C—
To: Hawaii County Council �--'
From: Kevin Wong, KYD, Inc. CZ) t
Re: Bill 83 — Relating to Plastic and Polystyrene Waste-'._,..
y,.
Position: Support the goal, with recommendations
Dear Chair Inaba, Vice Chair Onish), and Members of the Committee,
I'm Kevin Wong from KYD, Inc., a local supplier of foodservice and packaging products to businesses across
Hawail since 1946. Through our work with restaurants, schools, hospitals, hotels, and retailers, we have
seen firsthand how changes in packaging regulations impact costs and product availability.
We fully support Bill 83's objective of minimizing waste and promoting sustainable product use. At KYD, we
believe in environmental protection and actively seek out products that align with compostable and
sustainable standards.
However, we have some concerns about how compostable products are defined and approved in this bill.
The current focus primarily on certification from a limited group is troubling. We urge the County to consider
a broader range of recognized and reliable compostability certification programs that are available globally.
Some of these established programs include:
• Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI)
• Compost Manufacturing Alliance (CMA)
• DIN Certco
• NSF International
• TOV Austria
These organizations adhere to similar testing protocols and environmental criteria. Any products certified by
them must pass rigorous lab tests that examine:
Biodegradation
• Disintegration
• Heavy metals
• PFAS limits
• Continuous technical review
In essence, while the certifiers may differ, the scientific basis behind their certifications is quite consistent.
KYD collaborates with manufacturers from various regions, including Asia, Europe, Mexico, Canada, the
Middle East, and India, many of whom already comply with these recognized sustainability standards.
Given the ongoing global supply chain challenges, tariffs, and shipping delays, it isn't practical or safe for
local businesses to depend solely on a single country, supplier, or certification program.
Restricting Bill 83 to a narrow selection of certifiers could unintentionally lead to:
• Decreased product availability
• Increased costs for local businesses
• Increase consumer costs
• Limited competition
• Disruption in supply chains
Comm. *DC
Ref. To:
Ref. DaOraq;
We believe a more flexible, business -friendly approach would involve recognizing accredited compostability
certifications that meet accepted testing standards, rather than relying on just a handful of organizations.
This would:
• Still uphold environmental protections
• Support local businesses
• Stabilize product supply
• Allow for innovation and competition
We respectfully request that Bill 63 be amended to acknowledge all qualified comoostability
certifications that align with accepted testing standards.
Thank you for your time and for considering the input from local businesses. We appreciate your efforts to
find a balance between environmental stewardship and the needs of Hawai'i's business and citizen
community.
Mahalo,
AXA/+.t+ N01-S
Kevin Wong, CSO/Sales Manager
KYD, Inc.