Recycling in Hawaii

Hawaii has 111 recycling centers across 41 communities on six islands, including HI-5 beverage container redemption centers, county drop-off sites, scrap yards, and e-waste processors. The state's most visible recycling program is the Deposit Beverage Container Program — universally known as HI-5 — which places a 5-cent refundable deposit on each eligible aluminum, glass, bi-metal, PET (#1), or HDPE (#2) container of 68 fl oz or smaller. Launched in 2005 and administered by the Hawaii Department of Health's (HDOH) Office of Solid Waste Management (OSWM), HI-5 had 51 certified redemption centers and 294 registered beverage distributors as of 2025. The redemption rate was 52% in fiscal year 2025, and the unredeemed-deposit fund has grown to approximately $105 million. Hawaii's overall waste diversion rate is approximately 26.3%, as reported by OSWM.

Oahu holds the greatest concentration of recycling capacity. Honolulu leads all Hawaii cities with 20 centers, followed by Kapolei with 15 — both on Oahu. On the Big Island, Kailua Kona lists 7 and Hilo lists 5. Puunene on Maui has 6 centers, and Waipahu on Oahu lists 5. Keaau (Big Island) has 4 and Aiea (Oahu) has 3.

Beyond HI-5, Hawaii operates an extended producer responsibility (EPR) electronics recycling program covering TVs, computers, tablets, and printers. Under the program (originally enacted 2008, revised with Act 151), manufacturers must recycle 60% by weight of electronics sold in Hawaii in calendar year 2024, rising to 70% in 2025; failure triggers a $1.50-per-pound penalty. County programs on Oahu, Maui, Hawaii Island, and Kauai handle curbside collection and transfer-station drop-offs for paper, cardboard, metals, glass, and plastics, while OSWM coordinates the statewide solid waste and diversion strategy.

Top Cities by Number of Centers

All Cities in Hawaii

Recycling in Hawaii — FAQ

What is the HI-5 deposit and how do I redeem it?

HI-5 is Hawaii's Deposit Beverage Container Program, which adds a 5-cent refundable deposit to each eligible can or bottle sold in the state. To get your money back, bring empty containers to any of the 51 certified HI-5 redemption centers. Containers must be labeled HI5 and be made of aluminum, glass, bi-metal, PET, or HDPE plastic.

Does Hawaii have an electronics (e-waste) recycling law?

Yes. Hawaii's electronics EPR law (originally enacted 2008) requires manufacturers of TVs, computers, tablets, and printers to meet annual recycling weight targets — 60% in 2024, rising to 70% in 2025. Manufacturers that miss their targets pay a $1.50-per-pound penalty. Drop-off locations for covered electronics are available through county programs and HDOH-authorized collection sites.

What is Hawaii's recycling rate?

Hawaii's overall waste diversion rate is approximately 26.3%, according to the HDOH Office of Solid Waste Management. The HI-5 beverage container redemption rate was 52% in fiscal year 2025, down from prior years in part because the number of redemption centers has not kept pace with population growth.

Where are the biggest recycling hubs in Hawaii?

Honolulu leads with 20 listed centers and Kapolei with 15, both on Oahu. On Maui, Puunene lists 6 centers. On the Big Island, Kailua Kona has 7 and Hilo has 5. Waipahu (Oahu) lists 5 centers, and Keaau (Big Island) has 4.