About Zero Waste Kauaʻi
Founded in 2006 by John "The Dump Doctor" Harder and Pat Gegen, Zero Waste Kauaʻi is a volunteer-powered community organization and movement dedicated to reducing waste and rethinking how resources flow on our island. Through education, action, and collaboration, we work to support a thriving, resilient Kauaʻi—now and for generations to come.
Our island is facing real challenges, from limited landfill space to the impacts of overconsumption on our land, ocean, and communities. We believe that waste is not just something to manage, but something to rethink. When we shift our mindset, our discards become resources, and everyday choices become opportunities for positive change.
Mission
To educate, inspire, and assist government, businesses, residents, and visitors of Kauaʻi in transitioning to a zero waste society, and to advocate for policies and implement programs that move Kauaʻi toward a zero waste future.
We strive to reduce waste and advance a circular economy on Kauaʻi through education, action, and community collaboration.
We work to empower residents, businesses, and visitors with the knowledge and tools they need to make meaningful, practical changes—while advocating for systems that keep materials in use and out of the landfill.
Vision
We envision a Kauaʻi where nothing is wasted and everything is valued—supported by strong local systems that keep materials in use and reduce landfill reliance.
Through community collaboration and a growing circular economy, we see an island where reuse, recovery, and thoughtful consumption strengthen both our environment and our economy, creating a thriving Kauaʻi for generations to come.
What We Do
We work to advance zero waste solutions across Kauaʻi through education, action, and collaboration.
Our work focuses on practical, community-driven efforts that reduce landfill waste and strengthen local systems.
We do this by:
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Educating residents, visitors, and businesses on waste reduction best practices
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Supporting zero waste events and community initiatives
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Partnering with local organizations and businesses to increase reuse, recovery, and diversion
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Engaging with local government to help inform policy, raise awareness, and support long-term waste reduction solutions.
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Advocating for systems that support a circular economy on Kauaʻi
Who We Serve
Our work supports:
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Residents looking to reduce waste at home
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Businesses seeking practical, cost-effective and sustainable zero waste solutions
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Event organizers aiming to host low-waste gatherings
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Youth and student groups, inspiring and educating the next generation through hands-on learning and real-world waste solutions
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Visitors who want to care for Kauaʻi while they’re here
Zero Waste Kauaʻi is for anyone who cares about the future of the island.
Join the Movement
Creating a zero waste future for Kauaʻi takes all of us. Whether you’re a resident, business, visitor, or community partner, there are many ways to be part of the change.
From small everyday choices to larger community efforts, every action helps reduce waste, strengthen local systems, and move Kauaʻi toward a thriving circular economy.
Join the movement to reduce waste, protect the ʻāina, and build a thriving circular island for generations to come.