Ask The Mayor: What Items are Recycled on Maui?

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

Q: What items are currently being recycled on Maui? I have heard rumors that certain items like glass are just being thrown into the landfill and that cardboard will soon be given the same treatment. Is this correct? Please clarify.

A:  We have heard concerns that some recyclables are being disposed of at the landfill rather than actually being recycled. We want to reassure the community that this is not the case.

It is true that global recycling markets are in flux and the types of materials that are being accepted have been restricted. Even in the face of these challenges, the County of Maui is continuing its recycling systems – but we do need your help to do the best job possible.

If you are taking your recyclables to the county residential drop boxes located at the various areas around Maui island or to Recycle Molokai, please make sure that you sort your items properly and deposit only the items listed as recyclable on the drop box bins. We ask that you do not “wish-cycle” items that are not specifically listed as acceptable.

At this time, the items we accept are: plastic bottles #1 and #2, cardboard, newspaper, glass bottles and jars, aluminum cans and bi-metal cans. Make sure to rinse your containers well and recycle only clean, unsoiled cardboard or newspaper.

Together, we can keep recycling viable in Maui Nui. Mahalo for your kokua.

For more information about what to recycle and where, please visit: www.mauicounty.gov/recycle.

Want to Ask The Mayor?

Submit your Maui County related questions to Mayor Michael Victorino by email at [email protected], by phone at (808) 270-7855 or via mail to 200 S. High Street, ninth floor, Wailuku, Hawaiʻi 96793.

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