Recycling at Kawaiahaʻo Plaza just got easier thanks to brand new recycling bins. These permanent bins are conveniently located on each floor throughout KP.
The recycling bins are part of Kamehameha Schools’ Zero Waste program aimed at lowering the volume of waste produced by KS through reduction, reuse and recycling. A facility is considered “zero waste” when 90 percent of its refuse is diverted from incineration or landfills.
A waste audit conducted in 2015 showed that KP’s diversion rate was 11 percent, with 89 percent of waste going directly into landfill or incineration. A follow-up waste audit conducted in 2016 showed that KP’s diversion rate doubled and improved significantly to 23 percent.
Oʻahu’s Honolulu Program of Waste Energy Recovery (H-POWER) Plant processes waste and burns it to generate electricity. While transforming trash into electricity may seem like a win-win situation, for every 10 trucks that drop off rubbish at H-POWER, one truck leaves full of ash, and that ash still goes directly into landfill.
“Recycling and minimizing waste is still very crucial,” explains KS Sustainability Manager Amy Brinker. “Diverting waste from landfill is important as landfills are often located in or around the very communities that KS serves.”
By participating in the recycling program, KP can divert approximately 79,000 pounds of recyclable materials from landfill or incineration each year. With the implementation of the permanent recycling bins, KS is making strides toward building a more sustainable Hawaiʻi.
Staff members are encouraged to take the initiative by being mindful of what they throw away and actively recycling. Anyone interested in participating in the recycling program can choose to receive a blue recycling bin for their cubicle. Staffers can then take their own blue bins and empty them into the nearest Zero Waste consolidation bin.
Strategic Plan 2020
SP2020 is a five-year strategic plan that will guide Kamehameha Schools from 2015 to 2020. The plan marks a starting point toward KS’ Vision 2040, which envisions success for all Native Hawaiian learners.
The Zero Waste Program supports the KS Strategic Plan for 2015-2020 – Kūhanauna, specifically addressing goals 2, 3 and 5, with the objective of allowing KS to serve as a highly engaged Native Hawaiian organization that’s aware of its influence on the ʻāina and strives toward impact-driven resource management.
Kawaiahaʻo Plaza Zero Waste Recycling Bins
LOCATIONS
KP Mauka
1st foor – End of hallway (near suite 110)
2nd floor – In rotunda at end of hallway
3rd floor – End of hallway (near Legal back door)
4th – Near kitchen
KP Makai
1st floor – Near kitchen
6th floor – End of hallway
KP Annex
1st floor – Near kitchen
The bins may be used to recycle the following items:
Aluminum cans
Plastic and glass bottles
Plastic containers
Cardboard
Magazines
Newspapers
Non-confidential paper (white and/or colored)
All cans, bottles and containers must be emptied prior to recycling. Any items containing liquids or soiled by food are not recyclable. Additionally, items such as ceramics, books or confidential paperwork are not eligible to be put into the bins. However, ceramics, books or other gently-used office supplies can be donated to the KS Donation Station.
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