Kai Pono Solutions

Kai Pono Solutions is a cleantech startup addressing the pervasive issue of stormwater pollution with a patented, street-level filtration system. The company's origin traces back to a 20-year-old design by Dan McKee, a construction industry veteran with over 33 years of experience in flood control projects. He observed that existing storm drain protection measures were largely ineffective. The concept was brought to life in March 2020 by his daughter, Navy McKee, then a student at San Diego State University with a passion for ocean conservation. While home during the pandemic, she discovered her father's old drawings and decided to commercialize the idea, co-founding the company with him.

The firm operates on a business-to-business model, targeting government municipalities, public works departments, land developers, ports, and industrial facilities. Revenue is generated through the sale and installation of its filtration units. The core product is a modular, in-curb system designed for easy installation and maintenance, filtering pollutants at the source before they enter waterways. Comprised of multiple basins, the system sits flush with the curb and gutter line, allowing vehicles to drive over it. It employs a patent-pending sequence to filter contaminants, removing up to 99% of total suspended solids, 97% of petroleum products, and 44% of phosphorus. A key design feature is its flood-proof nature; if maintenance is neglected, the system allows overflow to prevent street flooding. The filters are customizable, with the ability to plug and play different media, such as activated carbon, to target specific local pollutants like metals or oils.

Kai Pono Solutions has received its Trash Capture Certification from the California State Water Resources Control Board, a crucial step for adoption by municipalities aiming to meet regulatory requirements like California's 2030 Trash Amendment. The company has engaged in pilot programs, including one in Wailea-Makena, Maui, situated near a heavy construction facility. Looking forward, Kai Pono plans to integrate an IoT device into its systems to collect data on flow rates, contaminant types, and maintenance needs, offering a data-driven service to its clients.

Keywords: stormwater filtration, water pollution control, urban runoff treatment, cleantech, storm drain filters, non-point source pollution, water quality management, environmental technology, trash capture device, street-level filtration, municipal water solutions, industrial water treatment, sediment control, oil and grease removal, sustainable drainage systems, green infrastructure, public works solutions, environmental engineering, Dan McKee, Navy McKee