For Immediate Release: Sept. 19, 2014
Press release by:
Councilmember Elle Cochran
Chair, Infrastructure and Environmental Management Committee
Cochran explores policy on zero waste, schedules a panel discussion
WAILUKU, Hawaii – The Infrastructure and Environmental Management Committee will host a panel discussion to consider a resolution adopting the principles of zero waste as a waste management policy for the County of Maui on Tuesday, Sept. 23 at 1:30 p.m. in the Council Chamber, Committee Chair Elle Cochran announced today.
Cochran said the panel will include Dr. Timothy Botkin, program coordinator for Sustainable Science Management Program at the University of Hawaii Maui College, Jeff Stark of Zero Waste Campaign Maui and Dr. Jennifer Chirico of Susty Pacific, a sustainability consulting firm. Two other panelists are from Kauai – Allison Fraley, solid waste program coordinator for the County of Kauai, and Pat Gegen from Zero Waste Kauai, a community organization that promotes zero waste principles.
Cochran said “zero waste” is a waste prevention concept where no trash is sent to landfills and incinerators; instead, all products are reused. She also noted the Maui County Charter requires the Director of Environmental Management to guide efforts to optimize opportunities for sustainability.
“It just makes sense, and it’s about time,” Cochran said. “A zero waste policy is the sustainable approach to waste management that the County needs.
“Residents today are more environmentally conscious and value the benefit of recycling and conservation. The County must lead by example if one of our objectives is to create a healthy and sustainable future.”
A panel discussion was requested by council members and the Director of Environmental Management at the July 28 committee meeting. Cochran said she encourages the public to learn more about zero waste at the meeting, which will be aired live on Channel 53 by Akaku Community Media.
Testimony will be accepted prior to the discussion or may be emailed to iem.committee@mauicounty.us, referencing IEM-37A copy of the resolution is available at mauicounty.gov/committees/iem.
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Review agenda: http://www.co.maui.hi.us/Archive.aspx?ADID=19453
Resolution: http://www.co.maui.hi.us/Archive.aspx?ADID=19282
