Bottle deposit hikes should not be automatic

THE ISSUE Charges to consumers won't increase for another year.

CONSUMERS missed a recycling mark that would have triggered an increase in fees they pay for beverage containers. That's good news if viewed purely as an individual pocketbook matter, bad news if seen as a slowdown in reducing some of Hawaii's recyclable wastes.

The current procedure that automatically pegs raises in fees to the percentage of containers redeemed should be reconsidered since it appears to penalize consumers who turn in bottles and cans.

Had the redemption rate in the last year reached 70 percent, the law calls for a half-cent fee increase per container, but with a 68 percent rate, the fees for the next year will remain at the 5-cent deposit per container and 1 cent for state administrative costs, the Health Department reported.

The law might seem counterproductive, but as more containers are recycled and more deposits are returned to consumers, handling costs supposedly increase, thus requiring the hike.

The department should try to streamline the program to reduce expenses and increase efficiency.

Meanwhile, the law should be changed to allow the agency to make fee adjustments as needed, rather than increases being automatic.

Even though Hawaii's recycling effort is only in its initial stages, its return rate bodes well for cutting the amount of beverage containers from the waste stream. The public should be commended for the program's success despite various problems at recycling centers, particularly at the start-up.

Consumers can do more, however, by buying fewer individual-size drink containers and using sport bottles or thermal cups instead. That would eliminate paying deposit fees and standing in line at the redemption center.