REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH TO CONDUCT A STUDY ON RECYCLABLE, BIODEGRADABLE, AND COMPOSTABLE LABELING IN THE STATE TO DETERMINE IF THE LABELING IS ACCURATE AND NON-DECEPTIVE.

This Senate Resolution requests the Hawaii Department of Health to conduct a study on the accuracy and clarity of recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable product labeling within the state. The study will examine whether current labels and symbols, such as the chasing arrows triangle, match actual recycling and composting capabilities in Hawaii, and will assess how misleading claims affect consumer decisions and waste management. Key provisions include evaluating specific product types, analyzing differences between home and industrial composting standards, identifying common contaminants caused by unclear labeling, and reviewing existing federal and state guidelines. The Department of Health is required to submit a report with findings and recommendations to the Legislature by the start of the 2027 session, potentially including proposed legislation to improve labeling standards.