Kukui Grove Continues Sustainability Initiatives

The Center debuts solar-powered waste and recyclable compacting bins

As part of Kukui Grove Center’s ongoing commitment to improve sustainability efforts, the center replaced several traditional trash bins with BigBelly solar-powered waste and recyclable compacting bins. Kukui Grove is the first shopping center in Hawai’i to make the transition to waste reducing bins, continuing to make Kukui Grove a leader of sustainability initiatives in the state.
The BigBelly solar-powered compacting waste and single stream recycling bins hold five times more than regular bins, are more sanitary and require fewer pickups. The bins use solar panels to power a motor that automatically compacts contents, resulting in the need for fewer bags and lower fuel emissions from fewer pickups. An electronic sensor installed in the bin wirelessly alerts staff when the bin becomes full and needs to be changed.

The decision to install the BigBelly units is part of Kukui Grove’s sustainability plan to be more environmentally friendly in all areas including recycling, conserving energy and water, landscaping and other “green” initiatives. Other sustainable efforts Kukui Grove has implemented include remote monitors and individual controlled LED parking lot lighting, free EV charging stations, recycle bins throughout the center and in partnership with Kaua’i County Kukui Grove opened a public recycling center at Kukui Marketplace. The center continues to integrate sustainable procedures internally by providing trash compactors, cardboard containers, and cooking oil recycling services for tenants.

“Kukui Grove Center is committed to creating long-term value by improving our natural resource efficiency, and operating and developing the center in a sustainable and environmentally sound manner,” said Kukui Grove Center General Manager Wade Lord. “Not only will the bins encourage recycling, but by compacting the trash, we use less trash bags and less room in the landfill, reducing Kukui Grove’s carbon footprint.”

BigBelly, Inc. is the world-leading provider of enterprise waste & recycling management solutions with more than 1,500 customers in 47 countries. The BigBelly Solar Smart Waste & Recycling System combines the power of cloud computing with smart solar-powered, compacting waste and recycling stations. BigBelly’s system helps customers beautify their public space while reducing operational costs by 70-80%. For more information, visit http://bigbelly.com. Follow BigBelly on Twitter at @BigBellySolar, on Facebook and on LinkedIn.

For more information about Kukui Grove Center, please contact Stacie Chiba-Miguel at (808) 977-8675. For more information on about other events at Kukui Grove Center, please visit www.KukuiGroveCenter.com.