A new recycling system for green waste is now open to Maui. Hawai'i Organics Compost in Waikapū is the largest company of its kind on the island.
Manager Jenny Sullivan said that Green Waste expired in the dump on the central Maui waste landfill in the district, but it is really a valuable resource.
“The green waste that goes into the county is simply ground, grinded and combined with mud and then rejected,” she said. “So as an island we haven't had a compost for over a year. We had to send it in super costly, and of course it is the high risk of contamination if the coconut -Rhinoceros beetle comes to our island.”
The facility is now open to public taxes from both private residents and businesses. Hawaiʻi Organics Compost accepts tree enemy, stumps, garden cutouts and Ras as well as untreated wood and pallets. They do not process food waste, garbage or metals. Drinking fees apply to residential and commercial delivery.
Sullivan emphasized the importance of the recycling of green waste.
“Green waste should never be put on the landfill ever. It should be composted,” said Sullivan. “We have to replenish this island. As important as it is to recycle your cans, bottles and boxes, it is just as important to recycle the green that grows on this island.”
The accepted materials will be processed in compost, top floor, mulch, sustainable firewood and other projects for purchase on site in a few months.
The local company and operated company works together with the sister company Hawai'i Materials Recycling in Kīhei, which was opened in 2018. This company accepts building materials such as concrete asphalt, rock and sand for recycling and reuse.
Hawai'i Organics Compost is located at the intersection of Ku'ihelani and Honoapi'ilani Highways in Waikapū and is open from Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. You can find more information here or call (808) 269-8064.