Report on Kauai County’s Initiative for Safe Disposal of Combustible and Hazardous Materials

Introduction

In alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), Kauai County in Hawaii has issued a public reminder to ensure the safe and proper disposal of combustible and hazardous materials ahead of the Fourth of July holiday.

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Events

Kauai County facilitates semi-annual Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection events aimed at reducing environmental pollution and promoting sustainable waste management practices. These events support SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by minimizing health risks associated with hazardous waste.

Accepted Materials

• Batteries: All types, including alkaline, rechargeable, and automotive batteries
• Fuels: Gasoline, kerosene, and other flammable liquids
• Cleaning Products: Household cleaners, degreasers, and disinfectants
• Paints: Oil-based paints, varnishes, and stains (Latex paint is generally not accepted once solidified and can be disposed of with regular trash if dry)

Next Collection Event Details

1. Date: Saturday, October 18
2. Time: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
3. Locations:
   • Kapaa Baseyard
   • Hanapepe Baseyard

For more detailed information on collection dates, accepted materials, and event locations, residents are encouraged to visit the official Kauai County website here.

Electronic Waste Recycling

Supporting SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land), the Puhi Metals Recycling Center accepts electronic waste including computers, televisions, and printers. This initiative helps reduce electronic waste pollution and promotes recycling.

• Operating Days: Monday to Saturday
• Operating Hours: 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Additional information can be accessed here.

Household Battery Recycling

To further encourage responsible waste management, Kauai County provides a drop-off location for household batteries (under 2 pounds) at the Kauai Resource Center in Lihue. This service contributes to SDG 12 by promoting recycling and reducing hazardous waste in landfills.

• Location: Kauai Resource Center, Lihue
• Operating Days: Monday through Friday
• Operating Hours: 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Conclusion

Kauai County’s comprehensive hazardous and electronic waste management programs exemplify a commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship. These efforts align with multiple SDGs, including responsible consumption and production, health and well-being, climate action, and sustainable communities, thereby fostering a safer and healthier environment for current and future generations.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – The article emphasizes safe disposal of hazardous materials to protect public health.
2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Promoting safe waste disposal contributes to sustainable urban environments.
3. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – The focus on household hazardous waste collection and recycling aligns with sustainable consumption and waste management.
4. SDG 15: Life on Land – Proper disposal of hazardous waste helps prevent land pollution and protects terrestrial ecosystems.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 3 – Target 3.9: Substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water and soil pollution and contamination.
2. SDG 11 – Target 11.6: Reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.
3. SDG 12 – Target 12.4: Achieve the environmentally sound management of chemicals and all wastes throughout their life cycle, in accordance with agreed international frameworks, and significantly reduce their release to air, water and soil.
4. SDG 15 – Target 15.1: Ensure the conservation, restoration and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

• Indicator for SDG 3.9: Mortality rate attributed to unsafe water, unsafe sanitation and lack of hygiene, and exposure to hazardous chemicals.
• Indicator for SDG 11.6: Proportion of municipal solid waste collected and managed in controlled facilities out of total municipal waste generated.
• Indicator for SDG 12.4: Number of parties to international multilateral environmental agreements on hazardous waste and chemicals that meet their commitments and obligations.
• Indicator for SDG 15.1: Forest area as a proportion of total land area and extent of land affected by desertification, land degradation, and drought.
• Implied indicators include the quantity of hazardous household waste collected during events, number of residents participating in recycling programs, and availability/accessibility of hazardous waste disposal facilities.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: kitv.com