The importance of taking action to protect the environment of Big Island Hawaii

Big Island Hawaii is a paradise on Earth. It is home to diverse and unique ecosystems, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking natural beauty. From the snow-capped peaks of Mauna Kea to the lush rainforests of Hilo, from the black sand beaches of Punalu’u to the fiery lava flows of Kilauea, Big Island Hawaii offers a variety of experiences and attractions for visitors and locals alike.

But this paradise is also under threat. Climate change, invasive species, pollution, overdevelopment, and human activities are putting pressure on the island’s environment and its inhabitants. If we don’t take action to protect and preserve Big Island Hawaii, we risk losing its precious resources and its irreplaceable charm.

Here are some of the reasons why we should care about the environment of Big Island Hawaii and what we can do to help.

The environment of Big Island Hawaii is essential for its economy and culture.

Big Island Hawaii depends on its environment for its economic and social well-being. Tourism, agriculture, fishing, renewable energy, and research are some of the industries that rely on the island’s natural resources and attractions. According to a 2019 report by the Hawaii Tourism Authority, Big Island Hawaii generated $2.6 billion in visitor spending and supported 32,000 jobs in 2018. The island also produces some of the world’s finest coffee, macadamia nuts, honey, papaya, and other crops that contribute to its local and global markets.

The environment of Big Island Hawaii is also intertwined with its culture and history. The island’s native Hawaiian population has a deep connection and respect for the land, the sea, and the sky. They practice traditional customs and rituals that honor their ancestors and their environment. They also share their stories, legends, music, dance, art, and cuisine with visitors and newcomers who want to learn more about their rich heritage.

The environment of Big Island Hawaii is facing multiple challenges and threats.

Despite its importance and value, the environment of Big Island Hawaii is facing many challenges and threats that endanger its health and sustainability. Some of these include:

• Climate change: Global warming is causing rising sea levels, coral bleaching, droughts, floods, storms, wildfires, and changes in temperature and precipitation patterns that affect the island’s ecosystems and communities.
• Invasive species: Non-native plants and animals that have been introduced intentionally or accidentally to the island are competing with or preying on native species, disrupting natural balances, spreading diseases, and causing damage to crops and infrastructure.
• Pollution: Land-based sources such as agricultural runoff, sewage, trash, chemicals, and plastics are contaminating the island’s waterways and coastal areas, affecting marine life and human health. Air pollution from volcanic emissions, vehicular emissions, and wildfires is also affecting air quality and visibility.
• Overdevelopment: Urban sprawl, deforestation, land conversion, and infrastructure development are encroaching on the island’s natural habitats, reducing biodiversity, increasing erosion, and altering hydrological cycles.
• Human activities: Recreational activities such as hiking, camping, surfing, snorkeling, and fishing can have negative impacts on the island’s environment if not done responsibly. For example, trampling vegetation, disturbing wildlife, leaving trash or waste behind, or harvesting or harming protected species can harm the island’s ecosystems.

We can take action to protect and preserve the environment of Big Island Hawaii.

The good news is that we can take action to protect and preserve the environment of Big Island Hawaii. There are many ways that we can make a difference as individuals, groups, organizations, and communities. Here are some examples:

• Educate ourselves and others: We can learn more about the island’s environment and its issues by reading books, articles, reports, and websites; watching documentaries, videos, and podcasts; visiting museums, parks, and nature centers; or attending workshops, seminars, and events. We can also share our knowledge and raise awareness among our family, friends, colleagues, and neighbors by having conversations, sending messages, posting on social media, or creating blogs or podcasts.
• Support local initiatives: We can support local initiatives that are working to protect and preserve the island’s environment by donating money or resources; volunteering our time or skills; joining or forming groups or networks; or participating in campaigns or actions. Some examples of local initiatives are The Nature Conservancy of Hawaii, Hawaii Wildlife Fund, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and Malama Maunalua.
• Adopt sustainable practices: We can adopt sustainable practices in our daily lives that reduce our environmental footprint and conserve natural resources. Some examples are using public transportation or biking instead of driving; reducing our energy and water consumption; switching to renewable energy sources; recycling and composting our waste; buying local and organic products; avoiding single-use plastics and disposable items; or planting native trees and flowers.
• Enjoy nature responsibly: We can enjoy nature responsibly when we visit or explore the island’s natural attractions by following the rules and regulations; respecting the wildlife and their habitats; staying on designated trails and campsites; carrying out what we bring in; or joining guided tours or activities that minimize our impact.

Conclusion

Big Island Hawaii is a paradise on Earth that deserves our care and attention. Its environment is essential for its economy and culture but it is also facing multiple challenges and threats. We can take action to protect and preserve its environment by educating ourselves and others; supporting local initiatives; adopting sustainable practices; or enjoying nature responsibly. By doing so, we can ensure that Big Island Hawaii remains a paradise for generations to come.