Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Green Hawaii
Hawaii is a Polynesian paradise with astoundingly varied natural environ-
ments - from
mauka
(toward the mountains) to
makai
(toward the sea). It's
also a high-profile test case of whether humans can achieve a sustainable
relationship with nature. With growing ecotourism and a renaissance of
Hawaiian traditions,
aloha ʻaina
(respect and love for the land) runs strong.
Conservation efforts, both state-funded and grassroots, are gaining
strength, and environmentally responsible businesses are sprouting up
statewide.
The Islands Go Green
Hawaii breathes green. From volcano summits and cloud forests to the ocean depths
where whales sing, the natural beauty of this place swallows you up. Green is also a way
of thinking and living on these islands, where residents spend many of their waking hours
outdoors. Nearly everyone who lives here feels a close connection to the land and the sea.
Environmental concerns are entangled in just about every major issue facing Hawaii.
Development is a notoriously contentious issue, due to the mixed impact that tourism, the
military and agribusiness have had on Hawaii's natural environment and indigenous cul-
ture. Pressures, especially from tourism and a rising local population, on Hawaii's water-
shed, energy resources and landfills can be intense. While Hawaii's economy would not
survive without these industries, some residents are asking what kind of jobs they really
bring, and at what cost?
How to achieve a more diversified, 'greener' economy and sustainable future growth is
the question on almost everyone's minds. Hawaii residents have repeatedly shown their
support, although not unanimously, for 'green' initiatives at the ballot box, including re-
newable energy initiatives. Meanwhile, islanders of all backgrounds have become envir-
onmental activists - from Native Hawaiians restoring ancient fishponds to volunteers
fighting to keep invasive plants at bay.
Traveling Sustainably
More than 7 million tourists land of these shores every year - outnumbering residents five
to one. But with these simple, sustainable travel practices, you can help these islands stay
a paradise for years to come.
