New Kauaʻi County law will prohibit sale, rental of disposable foam bodyboards in one year

Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami signed an ordinance into law that reduces environmental harm by prohibiting the sale, rental or distribution of disposable polystyrene foam bodyboards on Wednesday.

Introduced by Councilmember Fern Holland and co-sponsored by Council Vice Chair KipuKai Kuali‘i, Bill No. 2976 aims to protect the island’s unique environment, marine life, and avian populations and passed unanimously by the Kaua‘i County Council.

Disposable bodyboards, which are often used briefly before being discarded, break into smaller fragments that contribute to litter, create additional landfill burdens, and pose ingestion and entanglement risks for wildlife.

The bill encourages a shift toward durable bodyboards made from high-density polyethylene or polypropylene, which have a longer lifespan and reduced environmental impact.

“Disposable bodyboards may seem small, but their impact has been anything but small,” Kawakami said. “By eliminating polystyrene foam boards from stores and rentals, we are protecting our beaches, our ocean, and the wildlife that calls Kaua‘i home.”

Under the new ordinance, businesses are prohibited from selling, renting, or distributing disposable bodyboards. Violations are subject to escalating civil penalties, with enforcement authority vested in the Public Works Solid Waste Division, and additional legal action available through the County Attorney.

Definitions are included in the ordinance, which establishes a new Article 29 under Chapter 22 of the Kaua‘i County Code, clearly distinguishes disposable bodyboards, durable alternatives, and polystyrene foam.

“This ordinance reflects our responsibility to care for Kaua‘i’s environment,” Holland said. “By encouraging durable alternatives, we are reducing waste, protecting marine life, and ensuring our islands remain beautiful for generations to come.”

Bill No. 2976 will take effect one year from the date of approval, giving businesses time to transition to environmentally preferred alternatives.