Hawaii Senate Bill SCR112

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/24
• Refer: 3/14/24
• Report Pass: 4/3/24
• Engrossed: 4/4/24
• Refer: 4/5/24

Caption

Demanding The Department Of Accounting And General Services To Develop A Comprehensive Recycling Program, With Specific Focus On The Collection Of Hi-5 Recyclable Items, To Be Implemented In All Offices At The Hawaii State Capitol.

Impact

The proposed comprehensive recycling program aims to enhance participation in recycling practices among state employees and demonstrate the state’s leadership in environmental stewardship. With landfill space at a premium, effective waste management strategies are essential to protect the State's unique ecosystems and urban environments. Establishing mandatory recycling practices could serve as a model, encouraging similar initiatives in businesses and organizations statewide, which may lead to a broader cultural shift towards sustainability and environmental awareness.

Summary

SCR112, a concurrent resolution introduced in the Hawaii State Legislature, demands the Department of Accounting and General Services to establish a comprehensive recycling program that focuses specifically on HI-5 recyclable items within offices at the Hawaii State Capitol. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to sustainability and responsible environmental management, responding to the significant pressure of waste management and the limited landfill space within the state. By prioritizing recycling efforts, the resolution seeks to alleviate environmental challenges while setting a positive example for other organizations and communities in Hawaii.

Sentiment

The reception of SCR112 appears to be largely positive among legislators and environmental advocates who recognize the importance of taking actionable steps towards improving waste management practices. By mandating a recycling program within state offices, proponents express optimism that it will lead to increased public awareness about recycling. However, there may be concerns about the allocated resources necessary for effectively implementing the program as a state initiative.

Contention

While the bill expresses a general consensus on the need for improved recycling practices, the effective implementation may raise questions or challenges related to resource allocation, logistics, and participation enforcement. Detractors might argue over the feasibility of a comprehensive program given resource constraints, or the potential need for balancing such programs with other legislative priorities. Nevertheless, the resolution emphasizes the urgency of addressing Hawaii's waste management issues through a proactive legislative approach.