Urging The Department Of Health And Encouraging The County Of Maui, United States Army Corps Of Engineers, And Federal Emergency Management Agency To Take Certain Measures To Ensure The Safest Possible Management Of Ash And Debris From The August 2023 Maui Wildfires.
This resolution compels the Department of Health to enforce strict regulations under section 342H-30 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, mandating that all ash and debris be handled appropriately. This encompasses stipulations for the secure containment of waste in leak-proof trucks and the prohibition of alternative daily cover materials made from ash, thus reducing further contamination of the environment. It supports the County of Maui's decision to utilize the Central Maui Landfill as the designated long-term disposal site and urges an end to using the temporary Olowalu landfill to prevent additional environmental hazards.
Senate Resolution 141 (SR141) urges the Department of Health, the County of Maui, the United States Army Corps of Engineers, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency to take necessary measures for the effective management of ash and debris resulting from the August 2023 Maui wildfires. The resolution addresses the substantial health risks posed by the toxic components found in ash, including dioxins, furans, and other harmful materials. Given the significant threat these substances pose to public health and the environment, it advocates for proper containment and disposal practices to mitigate exposure risks to residents and ecosystems alike.
Noteworthy points of contention include concerns regarding the handling of waste, as thousands of truck trips are anticipated for transportation, potentially leading to traffic issues and spills. The resolution underscores the impracticalities associated with high-temperature waste management processes like pyrolysis and incineration, which may generate new toxic chemicals, exacerbating health risks for communities. Additionally, the resolution highlights the need for efficient waste management to meet legislative and environmental standards while prioritizing community safety and long-term ecological health.