The Hawaiʻi Department of Health (DOH) has taken action against Hawaii American Water by issuing a Notice of Violation and Order (NOVO). This decision follows the discharge of effluent exceeding the permitted limits from the East Honolulu Wastewater Treatment Plant into the Pacific Ocean.
From August 2022 to April 2024, Hawaii American Water exceeded its National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit limits for ammonia nitrogen on 14 occasions. Additionally, the facility did not submit required written noncompliance reports twice. The NOVO mandates that Hawaii American Water pay a penalty of $47,750 and implement corrective measures to prevent future violations.
Kathleen Ho, deputy director for the Environmental Health Administration, emphasized the issue's seriousness: “Ammonia is derived from the breakdown of proteins and amino acids in wastewater. High concentrations of ammonia can have toxic effects on aquatic organisms and contributes to excess nutrients in the water. As such, the discharge of ammonia above allowable limits into state waters is unacceptable.”
Environmental laws in Hawaiʻi apply to all individuals and entities, including business owners and government agencies. Non-compliance with water pollution laws may result in penalties up to $60,000 per day for each violation.
The DOH Clean Water Branch aims to protect public health and maintain water quality by prohibiting discharges that could impair it. Wastewater system operators are required to follow environmental regulations designed to safeguard public health and address pollution in state waters. Failure to adhere to these regulations can lead to legal actions from state or federal authorities or private citizens.
To access more details about the NOVO, visit here.