Envisioning a World with Less Plastic: Determining the Feasibility of a Reusable Takeout Container System for Hilo, HI

Authors: Lindsey Giorgi; Eric Motler; Jacqueline Kral; Brian Corcoran

Advisor: Lauren Mathews

Category: Undergraduate

Abstract/Description:
The landfill in Hilo, Hawai`i has closed, leaving all waste generated in the area with nowhere to go, besides Kona’s landfill. The majority of the restaurants in the Hilo area have a strong takeout culture. Most restaurants use single-use takeout containers, which contribute largely to the solid waste produced in Hilo. This study was conducted to determine the feasibility of implementing a reusable takeout container system in Hilo. Restaurants in Hilo were interviewed and the public was surveyed through an online form. Using the data that was collected, a business plan for the County and pamphlets for the restaurant owners and public were developed to aid in the start-up of a reusable takeout container system to decrease the amount of plastic waste in landfills.

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