Cocomposting in Hawaii

Company overcomes odor and feedstock challenges in cocomposting biosolids with palm fronds and other yard trimmings on the island of Maui.

IN 1991, Hawaii passed legislation mandating 25 percent diversion from the landfill by 1995. In Maui County, a waste characterization study made it clear that vegetation and biosolids were major components of the waste stream with potential for recovery. In addition, EPA regulations banning commercial liquid residuals from being landfilled were taking effect in October, 1993. Despite political opposition and concerns about odors, heavy metals and bioaerosols, then-Mayor Linda Lingle decided to start a pilot project to cocompost yard trimmings …