Landfills were the original way to dispose of rock, gravel, cinder blocks, and other solid construction and demolition waste in Hawaii. However, landfill space on the islands continues to decrease, causing the State of Hawaii to pass waste reduction legislation. Below, Rojac Trucking, the premier heavy-haul trucking company in Wailuku, explains the current solid waste removal process in Hawaii.

Local Trucking Company Explains How Solid Waste Disposal Works in Hawaii

Private & Municipal Landfills

Construction and demolition, or C&D, solid waste have increased in Hawaii due to the demolition of old buildings, including downtown Oahu and military structures. This occurred in favor of modern ones. Both Oahu and Maui feature privately-owned C&D landfills; however, they are the only landfills of their kind in Hawaii. Gravel and similar waste subsequently go to municipal solid waste, or MSW, landfills. These landfills are under strict federal guidelines, causing space issues with C&D waste. As a result, the State of Hawaii implemented the Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan to keep solid waste out of landfills and promote a more sustainable society.

Reusing & Recycling Efforts

Reducing and recycling gravel, sand, rock, metal, and other solid waste saves C&D contractors money while creating more landfill space. Concrete and asphalt waste, for example, enjoy new life as aggregate for roads and highways. Green waste, such as untreated wood, finds new use as mulch and compost. Excavated dirt and rock become topsoil and decorative rock material, respectively, while junk yards and similar recycling facilities always utilize scrap metal.

Other conservation efforts include material donations to nonprofit organizations. Many nonprofits throughout Hawaii accept items such as windows and doors for building projects. Some even request used paint to improve the look of assorted communities.

Rojac Trucking in Wailuku started nearly 40 years ago and continues to look for new and innovative ways to dispose of C&D waste responsibly. The family-owned, heavy-haul trucking company specializes in timely delivery services and is located close to quarries for easy material access. Call (808) 986-1100 or visit the trucking company online for more information about heavy haul services, and follow their Twitter for tips ranging from landscaping advice to heavy equipment safety.