Public’s input for Zero Waste Implementation Plan requested

Word gets around pretty quickly living on the Big Island, but did you know that Hilo's landfill is subject to closure in 2012?

Or that 70% of what is currently generated as solid waste continues to be landfilled?

It is this material, the major component being green waste and organics, that will provide resources, revenue, and green jobs required to ensure the island's sustainability.

If you farm, ranch, or produce green waste and/or organics, you can learn how to divert these materials from the island's landfills by attending the Zero Waste meetings listed below.

We also invite Hawaii Island residents who have an interest in recycling, reuse, and turning food waste and other organics such as yard trimmings and kitchen scraps into valuable compost to attend one of the upcoming meetings sponsored by Recycle Hawai`i and Richard Anthony Associates.

During the first week in February, the public is invited to provide input into the Zero Waste Implementation Plan for the County of Hawai`i.

To read the DRAFT Plan for Zero Waste Implementation prior to these meetings, go to www.recyclehawaii.org online and click on the Zero Waste page.

Public input will be accepted in Waimea on Tuesday, February 3rd from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Thelma Parker Library;

In Kona, on Wednesday, February 4th at the County's Liquor Commission Conference Room, 75-5722 Hanama Place, #1107, from 6 to 8 p.m.;

in Hilo, the meeting will take place on Thursday, February 5th from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Mokupapapa Discovery Center;

and in Pahoa on Friday, February 6th from 6 – 8 p.m. – take 2nd left past Kahakai on the Pahoa bypass road heading south – 1st gated house on right will be marked with a sign (bring folding chairs to the Pahoa meeting).

Please join us at one of these four island-wide events! Malama I ka `Aina – It’s Everyone’s kuleana!