Hilo program offers reusable takeout containers

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - A new program in Hilo allows customers at participating restaurants to get take out in reusable containers.

Hawaii County and its partners launched the Ho’i Returnable Dish Program on Monday. It is operated by VYTAL, a global reuse service provider.

The program provides stainless steel food and drink containers to participating businesses. Customers can use them for free, but they will be charged if they don’t return them within seven days.

The containers can be dropped off at any of the Ho’i return boxes installed around Hilo. Once returned, they are collected, washed, inspected, and redistributed.

“Hoʻi means ‘to return,’” said Kuʻulei Keawekane, Zero Waste Hawaiʻi Island’s cultural advisor. “The name reflects both the journey of the containers and the community’s desire to return to our original way of caring for the land and each other.”

The program was developed by Zero Waste Hawaii Island and Perpetual in collaboration with the Hawaii County Department of Environmental Management and The University of Hawaii Sea Grant College Program.

“We know that residents and businesses want more options for reducing waste,” said Mayor Kimo Alameda. “Hoʻi is designed to offer an alternative to single-use containers that supports our economy and keeps trash out of our landfill.”

Nine businesses are participating in the launch: Cupcakes Boom!, Sweet Cane Cafe, Hilo Burger Joint, Kalo and Cream, Anuenue on the Bay, Big Island Smokehouse, Island Naturals, Mohala’s Bayfront Fish and Chips, and Keaukaha General Store.

Organizers say the cost for businesses to participate is comparable to the cost of compostable packaging.

The program is funded by $2.1 million in grants from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and $1.8 million in private contributions.

Details on the program and a map of return points can be found on the program’s website.