In a recent announcement, the Office of the Governor highlighted various initiatives undertaken by state departments to commemorate Earth Day.
The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation has embarked on Phase 2 of its Plastic Road Pilot on Fort Weaver Road. According to the Governor's office, this phase involves collaborating with partners to test a recycled plastic polymer in the pavement binder. The project's objective is to repurpose plastic waste, including consumer plastic and abandoned fishing nets, into road materials, thereby diverting waste from landfills. The completion of Phase 1 in October 2022 resulted in the use of recycled plastic polymer equivalent to keeping 195,000 plastic bottles out of landfills. Now, local plastic waste is being incorporated into Phase 2, further reducing environmental impact.
Additionally, the Department of Accounting and General Services joined forces with the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) for a Going Green Recycling Event. This event aimed to collect electronic waste to prevent it from entering landfills, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable practices.
Furthermore, the DLNR Division of State Parks organized a stream clean-up event at Makiki Valley State Recreation Area as part of the Earth Day celebrations. This initiative not only promoted environmental stewardship but also encouraged community engagement in preserving natural spaces.
These initiatives underscore the state government's commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability, reflecting Governor Green's dedication to fostering a greener and more resilient future for Hawai‘i.