Bill > SB676

This bill establishes a comprehensive strategy for reducing organic waste in Hawaii, building on previous waste reduction goals and the Aloha+ Challenge. The legislation defines organic waste as compostable or biodegradable materials from plants or animals and introduces a phased approach to diverting organic waste from landfills. The bill sets specific benchmarks for different types of waste generators, requiring large food vendors, distributors, and grocery stores to divert organic waste by January 1, 2026, followed by restaurants, schools, and healthcare facilities by 2030, and eventually multi-family complexes by 2034. By January 1, 2035, the bill will completely ban organic waste from landfills and co-generation plants, including waste from single-family homes. The state's waste reduction goals have been updated to aim for a 40% reduction by 2026 and a 70% reduction by 2030, with a target of 100% organic waste stream reduction by 2035. The bill also requires counties to incorporate these new organic waste diversion requirements into their integrated solid waste management plans and provides state funding to help counties implement these changes. The legislation is part of Hawaii's broader effort to meet United Nations Sustainable Development goals and reduce environmental impact through improved waste management practices.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=676&year=2025