Construction Begins on Lanai Recycling and Redemption Center

Construction has started on the new recycling and redemption center on the island of Lanai. The $235,727 first Phase includes grubbing and grading. When work on Phase I is complete this summer, the facility will begin accepting HI5 beverage containers.

Jim Fernandez performs preliminary site work as construction on the new Lanai Recycling and Redemption Center begins. Photo courtesy, Tri-Isle RC&D

When Phase II is complete, services will be expanded to include acceptance of glass and plastic containers, metal cans, newspaper and cardboard. Future planned expansion at the facility will allow for the acceptance of vehicle batteries and appliances for recycling, but that work is pending available funding.

The facility is located on a 1-acre parcel leased by the County from Castle & Cooke, Inc., off the 12th Street access road in Lanai City.

“I’m glad that after lengthy negotiations with Castle and Cooke, we have reached an agreement to allow the new recycling and redemption center to become a reality for the Lanai community,” said Maui Mayor Charmaine Tavares.

“Increasing recycling is an important goal outlined in our County’s Integrated Solid Waste Plan, and it will extend the life of the Lanai Landfill and help the residents and businesses of Lanai become more sustainable,” said Tavares.

Funding for the facility was provided by the County of Maui Department of Environmental Management in the form of a grant for a three-year pilot project. The grant was awarded to Tri-Isle RC& D, which is overseeing the construction and operations. The company has been operating the only HI5 redemption site on Lanai for the past five years.