HomeMy WebLinkAbout2022-10-26 EMC testimony (10-25) Volcano Precious Plastic - Snook, KirstenFrom:Kirsten Snook
To:Sur, Peter
Subject:Testimony in support of V.3. Discussion on preparations to apply for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s
Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling Grant Program. Advice to DEM on priorities for grant proposals
Date:Tuesday, October 25, 2022 10:01:17 AM
Aloha,
I am writing in support of V.3. Discussion on preparations to apply for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s
Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling Grant Program/Advice to DEM on priorities for grant proposals.
The measures included in these proposals will proactively equip Hawaii Island to create a circular economy and
waste less of our limited resources. The Resource Recovery Park model is already working in various
municipalities, profitably, and is a solid investment in the future of our ‘āina.
Public/private partnerships can alleviate the tremendous burden that recycling efforts have historically created on
single entities. Modern methods make reuse and recycling more feasible than ever. Public awareness is growing that
there is no “away” when things are thrown “away”.
The EPA is poised to release record funding to mitigate climate change and to establish unprecedented waste
management systems that can positively affect the future of our island. If we miss this opportunity to create a
sustainable future for ourselves, we risk losing the very things that make us unique and keep Hawaii a destination
that tourists idealize: our native species, our beautiful beaches, our ʻāina, and our aloha.
Please fund a grantwriter to help us achieve self-sufficiency. With only one (rapidly filling) landfill and virtually no
disincentives to overconsumption, it is not difficult to imagine our island awash in its own refuse. We must act now,
and create solutions for the future that benefit us all.
Mahalo,
Kirsten Snook
Volcano Precious Plastic