Go Green Initiative

Mission Statement

This initiative is targeted to formalize a strong commitment by Kiawah’s major entities, stakeholders and the entire community to continue our strong focus on environmental stewardship, sustainability and advancement of eco-friendly public and private practices across the entire island. 

While being fiscally responsible and understanding the need for operational efficiency in the different entities, the Town would like to encourage the different entities on the island and the entire community to have the ambition to become a leader in the implementation of projects and measures to help protect our island’s environment, nature and beach and marsh barriers. By doing so, we all can help to mitigate the negative influences from rising sea levels and potential new weather patterns.

Please take a moment and watch a short video about TOKI's Go Green initiative.

This “Kiawah Goes Green” initiative includes 10 focus areas:

1. Establish neutral EV Charging Station Network
2. Convert some Beach Vehicles to EV
3. Convert some Fleet Vehicles to EV
4. Test Battery-operated Landscaping Equipment
5. Eliminate Single-Use Plastic Materials
6. Allow Solar Panel Design Concepts
7. Avoid Contamination of Trash and Recycling Bins
8. Establish Hazardous Waste Collection Events
9. Implement Composting Capabilities
10. Establish detailed Communication Plan

Current Project Updates:

Electric Vehicles

The Town currently has one electric vehicle within its fleet and will have one additional later this year. The Town is also considering providing electric vehicle charging stations at the Town Hall. The cost and other specifics will be discussed in the coming months. 

Cross Contamination Education

The Town launched its Waste Wizard tool earlier this year as a resource for residents. If a resident is unsure of the best way to dispose of an item, they can type their item into the search and it will tell them how to properly dispose of it. To view the tool, click here. 

The Town is beginning a pilot program of placing stickers on household recycling and garbage bins to further educate residents on proper disposal. The pilot will include about 1,000 households, in select areas throughout the island for both property owners and short-term rental locations. If this program causes a change with cross contamination, it may expand to other areas of the island. 

The Town has continued education and awareness through various digital platforms, such as our e-newsletter and social media. These reminders will continue throughout the year. 

Household Hazardous Waste Collection

The Town provided its household hazardous waste collection earlier this year and plans to continue collections quarterly. The first was very successful and had wide island participation.

Composting 

Kiawah Island residents can recycle food scraps for FREE at participating compost collection sites on the island. Kiawah Island residents must register their household and successfully complete a brief training through this form. Upon registering, residents will receive additional information and an access code which is required to drop off items at the compost collection sites.