The potential risks of not taking conservation seriously on Big Island Hawaii

The potential risks of not taking conservation seriously on Big Island Hawaii

Big Island Hawaii is a wonderland of natural beauty and diversity. It is the largest and youngest of the Hawaiian islands, and it boasts 11 of the world’s 13 climate zones. It is home to active volcanoes, lush rainforests, snow-capped mountains, black sand beaches, coral reefs, and more. It is also home to many endemic and endangered species, such as the Hawaiian honeycreeper, the nene goose, the silversword plant, and the green sea turtle.

But this paradise is under threat from various factors that are putting its environment and its people at risk. Climate change, invasive species, habitat loss, pollution, overdevelopment, and overexploitation are some of the challenges that Big Island Hawaii is facing. If we do not take conservation seriously on this island, we may lose more than we can imagine. Here are some of the potential risks of not taking conservation seriously on Big Island Hawaii:

• We may lose the island’s unique and irreplaceable biodiversity. The island’s isolation and volcanic origin have created a rich and diverse array of life forms that are found nowhere else on Earth. Many of these species are already endangered or extinct due to human activities and introduced predators. If we do not protect and restore their habitats and populations, we may lose them forever.
• We may damage the island’s natural resources and ecosystem services. The island’s natural resources provide us with many benefits and services that are essential for our well-being and survival. These include fresh water, clean air, fertile soil, food, medicine, recreation, tourism, culture, and more. If we do not manage and use these resources wisely and sustainably, we may degrade their quality and quantity, and compromise their ability to support us.
• We may endanger the island’s cultural heritage and identity. The island’s natural environment is deeply intertwined with its cultural heritage and identity. The island’s native Hawaiian people have a strong connection and respect for the land and its living beings. They have developed a rich and diverse culture that reflects their history, values, beliefs, traditions, and practices. If we do not respect and preserve their culture and their rights, we may erode their sense of belonging and pride.
• We may jeopardize the island’s economic development and social stability. The island’s natural environment is also a key driver of its economic development and social stability. The island’s tourism industry relies heavily on its natural attractions and amenities to draw visitors from around the world. The island’s agriculture industry depends on its fertile land and water resources to produce crops and livestock. The island’s energy industry relies on its renewable sources such as geothermal, solar, wind, and hydro power to generate electricity. If we do not safeguard and enhance these assets, we may lose our competitive edge and our livelihoods.

By ignoring these risks, we are putting ourselves and our future generations in danger. We are also missing out on the opportunities and benefits that conservation can bring us. Conservation can help us conserve our natural capital, enhance our human capital, increase our social capital, and improve our quality of life.

Big Island Hawaii is more than just an island. It is a legacy that we have inherited from our ancestors and that we have to pass on to our descendants. Let us all take conservation seriously on this island before it is too late.