If there is to be a sea change toward creating a culture of recycling in Honolulu, engaging our youth will be key to its success.

That's what's good about Mayor Mufi Hannemmann's approach to establishing a new curbside recycling program. In addition to holding islandwide community meetings to garner input, the mayor has set aside a special meeting geared exclusively for O'ahu's youth tomorrow at 'Iolani School.

Now it's up to our youth to answer that call. Turn the Xbox off for a moment, take a couple of hours from your Saturday surfing schedule and go chat with the mayor. Share your thoughts on what recycling could mean for our island's future.

Think your voice doesn't matter? Think again. Commentaries on the need for recycling written by The Advertiser's Teen Editorial Board made a difference, the mayor said. Going forward, the voice of our islands' youth is critical. "As we look to the future of our island home, their input, suggestions and recommendations are significant," Hannemann said.

On the table is a pilot program in limited areas, such as Windward O'ahu, Mililani and Hawai'i Kai. The city would have two curbside pickups weekly, one for regular trash and a second pickup would alternate between greenwaste and mixed recyclables. Residents have the option of receiving a second regular trash pickup each week for a monthly fee of $10. It's a sensible approach to our growing problem of solid waste disposal.

Curbside recycling is a vital part of a sustainable Hawai'i. Now it's up to our youth to ensure that message comes through loud and clear.