The state's HI-5¢ recycling program has been an undeniable success: In the last half of 2008, more than 80 percent of the qualifying beverage containers sold were redeemed.

Much of that success comes from people wanting to collect that 5-cent deposit — a small but irresistible financial incentive. And in this weak economy, individuals, fund-raising drives, nonprofit groups — not to mention for-profit companies — have tapped into this cascade of nickels like never before.

But even at 80 percent, there's room for improvement. There's still the 20 percent potentially entering the waste stream — as litter or in landfills.

Curbside recycling is expanding, and that will help. But encouraging continued participation on all levels is key. Building on HI-5¢'s current success to establish a long-term, stable program should be a priority to protect Hawai'i's environment. So it makes sense to expand HI-5¢'s reach, making it more convenient for people to use. Allowing them to redeem their containers where they bought them and where they shop is a logical next step.

Previous attempts to require stores to have redemption centers were successfully fought off by retailers. Their concerns are understandable: Operating a center requires the expense of staffing, storage and proper sanitation.

But a compromise proposal before the Legislature — which would apply only to retailers with 75,000 square feet or more — is a reasonable start. It would primarily affect popular big-box stores like Costco, Wal-mart, Sam's Club and Target.

To take away some of the sting, current incentives for installing reverse vending machines — set to expire on June 30 — should be continued. The requirements for retailers should be flexible enough so the costs won't be prohibitive.

And more important, revenues raised by the HI-5¢ deposits, which go to cover the program's costs, should remain in the program fund.

Proposals to raid the fund to balance the budget are ill-advised. Dipping into the fund could jeopardize the program's ability to expand or even cover costs.

Building on the positive momentum, not hampering it, is the right way to ensure continued participation and success.