Malama Maui Nui plans to end its Household Batteries Recycling program and the Paint Exchange as of June 30. The nonprofit environmental organization that promotes community engagement in sustainable waste management and conservation programs said it’s closing the programs due to a lack of funds.
Malama Maui Nui will continue to collect batteries and host the pick-up and drop-off of usable water-based, acrylic, or latex paint through the end of business day June 30.
“We remain extremely proud of what these programs have accomplished,” said Gabrielle Schuerger, interim Executive Director of Malama Maui Nui. “They have allowed us to collaborate with neighboring businesses, community members, and our local government to carry out end-of-life best management practices for common household waste for many years.”
Malama Maui Nui’s programs have recycled more than 20 tons of batteries and redistributed more than 13,000 gallons of usable paint, diverting that much waste from ending up in Maui County landfills. Instead, those materials were given a second life: for the batteries, in the form of recycled plastic, rebar, fertilizers, and other useful products; and for the paint, as the key ingredient in countless Do-It-Yourself projects such as creating set backdrops for school plays, waterproofing outdoor sheds, renovating children’s bedrooms, even making dream boards for self-expression and inspiration.
“When it comes to sustainable waste management, these kinds of programs are successful when the community demonstrates their value through their actions: by volunteering their time to assist with program facilitation, donating to the programs, and encouraging everyone involved to participate, including their local representatives,” said Schuerger.
Community members are encouraged to contact Malama Maui Nui as well as their political representatives on the local and state level to share any comments or concerns regarding the closure of the Household Batteries Recycling program and the Paint Exchange. Questions can be directed to info@cwdhawaii.org or 808-877-2524. For more information, go to MalamaMauiNui.org.
Photo courtesy of Malama Maui Nui
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