Hawaii Senate Bill SCR172

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• Refer: 3/12/25

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Health To Convene A Demolition Waste Reduction Working Group.

Impact

The resolution outlines several key objectives for the working group, including the identification and implementation of strategies to reduce construction and demolition waste statewide. It emphasizes increasing the adoption of reusable materials, fostering collaboration between public and private sectors, and aligning efforts with Hawaii's broader goals concerning carbon neutrality and environmental justice. By prioritizing waste reduction and sustainable practices, in alignment with Act 15 from 2018, the initiative promises significant environmental benefits, such as lowering greenhouse gas emissions and reducing reliance on landfills, particularly benefiting disadvantaged communities historically affected by proximity to landfills.

Summary

SCR172 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution from the State of Hawaii's Thirty-third Legislature, aiming to tackle the pressing issue of construction and demolition waste. As landfills in the state approach capacity and face community opposition to expansions, the legislation recognizes the urgent need for a comprehensive and coordinated approach to waste reduction. The concurrent resolution seeks to establish a Demolition Waste Reduction Working Group under the Department of Health to spearhead initiatives aimed at reducing the significant amount of waste generated from demolition activities, which comprises a substantial portion of landfill content in Hawaii. This group's efforts will be critical in addressing the state's landfill crisis and its environmental impact.

Contention

Opposition may arise concerning the mechanisms and policies that would be proposed by the working group. Concerns could center on the effectiveness and feasibility of implementing circular economy principles across various industries, as well as the potential costs associated with transitioning to deconstruction and material reuse strategies. The effort to engage stakeholders from diverse sectors—such as construction, demolition, and waste management—aims to promote innovative practices; however, significant barriers may still exist, particularly regarding funding, legislative support for necessary changes, and ensuring that all community voices are adequately heard and represented in the decision-making process.