Ask the Mayor: When is Next Household Hazardous Waste Collection?

Maui County Mayor Alan Arakawa answers some of the most-asked questions submitted to his staff.

Dear Mayor Alan Arakawa,

Q: When is Maui County going to host its next Household Hazardous Waste Collection? We used to have two a year, but I don’t think we’ve had one yet this year. If one isn’t scheduled, where can residents dispose of items like large fluorescent tubes, batteries and household chemicals?

A: Our Recycling Division said they had one earlier this year, back in February, and that the next event will not be until March 2019. They would also like to remind residents that this collection is by
appointment only. To schedule an appointment contact EnviroServices at (808) 839-7222.

If you are not able to wait until March 24, here are some options for the items for which you requested information:

• Fluorescent tubes: Home Depot has an ongoing collection program for fluorescent tubes. They have a collection box located by the front entrance.
• Batteries: re-chargeable tool-type batteries can also be recycled at Home Depot. There is a collection box located at the front entrance that is labeled for tool batteries. There is no longer a recycling program for other types of household batteries (AA, D, etc.) because they are a fire hazard for shipping; you can throw these types of batteries in your household rubbish. Maui has a Sanitary Landfill, which means it has a sturdy liner and is designed to handle small quantities of household hazardous waste.
• Household chemicals: basic instructions are to absorb small quantities of household chemicals in an absorbent material such as kitty litter, triple plastic bag and take to the Central Maui Landfill. Please call (808) 270-7863 and ask for Cecile. This is her direct line and she can guide you through this process depending on what you have. Proper disposal really depends on what you have and the quantity, so make sure you contact the division if you have any questions.

Submit your questions about County of Maui programs, services, operations or policies to Mayor Alan Arakawa via email at AskTheMayor@mauicounty.gov, by phone at (808) 270-7855 or via mail to 200 S. High Street, 9^th Floor, Wailuku, Hawaiʻi 96793.

Questions submitted will be considered for inclusion in the “Ask the Mayor” column.