Hawaii to assess new EPR program for packaging waste under HB750

HAWAII – Hawaii’s government has urged the Department of Health to conduct a comprehensive assessment of HB750, signed into law on May 27, 2025, to explore the establishment of an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program for packaging and paper products.

The initiative aims to curb waste, boost recycling, and promote a circular economy in the face of the state’s looming landfill capacity crisis.

According to the legislation, the Department of Health will lead a statewide study to evaluate the infrastructure, costs, and stakeholder roles needed to implement an EPR program. 

“This assessment is a critical step to ensure we design a system that reduces waste and supports local processing,” Governor Josh Green said in a statement. 

The program targets a wide range of materials, including plastic containers, glass bottles, metal cans, paper, cardboard, and multi-material composites, with the goal of encouraging producers to rethink packaging design and prioritize reuse.

An advisory council, comprising representatives from waste, recycling, compost, and reuse operations, as well as businesses and national producer groups, will guide the assessment. 

“We need a collaborative approach to create a sustainable model that works for Hawaii’s unique challenges,” said Leilani Kawika, a council member representing local recyclers. 

The council will review drafts and provide recommendations, with a final report due to the legislature by December 31, 2027.

The law addresses Hawaii’s pressing waste management issues, as landfills near capacity and high waste export costs strain resources. 

By shifting responsibility to producers and importers, the EPR program could transform how packaged goods are managed, impacting retailers, distributors, local governments, and consumers. 

The assessment will explore infrastructure upgrades and data systems needed to support recycling and local material processing, potentially funded by US$41.5 million annually in fiscal years 2026 and 2027.

Meanwhile, a recent update from July 2025 highlights growing momentum for EPR programs nationwide, with states like Oregon and Colorado implementing similar initiatives. 

Oregon’s EPR program, launched on July 1, 2025, requires producers to fund recycling improvements, offering a potential model for Hawaii. 

By fostering partnerships and leveraging global expertise, Hawaii aims to create a tailored EPR framework. 

“This is about building a future where waste is minimized, and resources are reused effectively,” said Kawika. 

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