What's Being Discussed

This is the first meeting of the Packaging Materials & Paper Products Needs Assessment Advisory Council, organized by the Hawaii Department of Health. The council is being formed under Act 103 (2025 Hawaii law), which requires a study of packaging and paper product waste in the state. Key topics include:

• Introductions and an overview of how the council will operate
• What the law requires from this advisory council and the needs assessment process
• Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) — a policy approach that holds manufacturers responsible for the end-of-life management of their products and packaging
• How other states are approaching similar studies and legislation
• The project's planned phases and timeline
• How often the council will meet and how members will review documents
• Public comment period

Decisions Expected

No formal votes or binding decisions are expected at this first meeting. The session is primarily informational and organizational — establishing how the advisory council will function going forward and familiarizing members with the project scope and legal requirements.

Who Should Pay Attention

• Businesses that manufacture, sell, or distribute packaged goods or paper products in Hawaii
• Waste management and recycling organizations operating in the state
• Environmental advocates interested in packaging waste and producer accountability
• General public concerned about recycling, waste reduction, or product regulations

The public can attend in person in Pearl City or virtually via Microsoft Teams. Oral comments are limited to two minutes. Written testimony can be emailed to tracie.saito@doh.hawaii.gov.