A8 - Wednesday, December 20,2023 - THE MAUI NEWS



On December 21, 2023, EPA will have completed removing
over 200 tons of hazardous materials from properties
affected by the wildfires. Our work also included removing
over 30 tons of lithium-ion batteries from cars and homes
and preventing dust and debris from blowing off properties
before debris removal.

Our deepest sympathies and condolences are with those
who lost loved ones, property, and their beloved town. We
will forever be impacted by the profound loss of life, and loss
of historic and cultural resources.

We have been continuously inspired by how the community
responded to our presence with unity, grace, and love. Early
on, we knew this emergency response had to be done the
Maui way.

Mahalo to all community members who worked with
our teams to ensure our work was done with reverence
and respect. The community heart fully guided this
response.

Mahalo for telling your stories, for sharing your
vulnerability and warmth, and welcoming us into your
community.

Mahalo for holding us to exemplary standards and
high expectations for serving you.

While our hazardous material removal mission is ending, a
small EPA team will remain to assist the county and state
with assessing water infrastructure damage and with
sustainability efforts.

We know this is only the first step on a long road to recovery,
but if there is anything we learned throughout this work, it Is
that this community is resilient.

EPA staff from across the country volunteered for this
recovery work. Maui gives so much to the world, and as
guests it is our honor to give our kokua back.

He aloha i ka'ili ole 7o e ka makani. A love that is not
snatched away by the wind.

Mahalo nui,

United States Environmental Protection Agency
epa.gov/maui-wildfires

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