How to reduce your carbon footprint while traveling in Hawaii

Hawaii is a place of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and warm hospitality. But it is also a place that faces many environmental challenges, such as climate change, sea level rise, coral bleaching, and invasive species. As a visitor, you can enjoy Hawaii’s natural beauty and diversity while minimizing your impact and maximizing your benefits. Here are some tips on how to reduce your carbon footprint while traveling in Hawaii:

1. Choose low-carbon transportation options

Transportation is one of the main sources of greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global warming. You can reduce your carbon footprint by choosing low-carbon transportation options whenever possible. For example:

• Fly with airlines that use fuel-efficient aircrafts and offer carbon-neutral flights. Some airlines like United, Alaska Airlines, Delta, and American Airlines have made significant efforts to reduce their carbon emissions and offer carbon-neutral flights¹. You can also offset your flight emissions by donating to organizations that support renewable energy or reforestation projects.
• Use public transportation or rent a bike or an electric car to get around the island. Hawaii has various public transportation options such as buses, shuttles, trolleys, and rail systems that can help you reduce your carbon footprint. You can also rent a bike or an electric car to explore the island at your own pace and convenience.
• Walk or cycle when possible. Walking or cycling is not only good for your health and fitness, but also for the environment and the local community. You can enjoy the scenery, interact with locals, and discover hidden gems that you might miss otherwise.

2. Stay at eco-friendly accommodations

Another way to reduce your carbon footprint is to stay at eco-friendly accommodations that respect the environment and the local community. Look for hotels or vacation rentals that use renewable energy sources, compost waste, provide organic and locally sourced meals, and participate in conservation programs. For example:

• Stay at ‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach on Oahu, which is on track to become the first carbon-neutral hotel in the state, thanks to initiatives like using renewable electricity and planting 100,000 indigenous trees in a legacy forest².
• Book a room at the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls in Hilo on Big Island, which is an off-the-grid property that uses a waterfall and solar panels to power everything, collects and filters rainwater for drinking and bathing, and offers activities such as farm-to-table cooking classes, waterfall rappelling, and native plant restoration³.

3. Support local businesses and communities

Another way to reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to the local economy is to support local businesses and communities that offer authentic and sustainable products and services. For example:

• Eat at family-run restaurants that serve fresh and local ingredients, such as South Shore Grill near Diamond Head crater or Merriman’s on Kauai, Maui, Oahu, and Big Island⁴. You can also shop at local markets and boutiques that sell handmade crafts and souvenirs made from natural or recycled materials.
• Join tours or activities that are operated by local guides who respect the nature and culture of Hawaii. You can also join volunteer activities that benefit the local community or environment, such as beach cleanups, forest restoration, or cultural preservation.

4. Engage in ethical wildlife encounters

Hawaii is a place of amazing wildlife, with some of the most diverse and endangered species and habitats in the world. You can explore its volcanoes, waterfalls, rainforests, beaches, and coral reefs by hiking, biking, kayaking, snorkeling, surfing, or sailing. But while you enjoy these natural wonders, you should also be mindful of your impact on them. Follow these guidelines to engage in ethical wildlife encounters responsibly:

• Stay on marked trails and avoid stepping on or picking plants or animals.
• Keep a safe distance from wildlife and do not feed or touch them.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid touching or standing on coral reefs.
• Dispose of your trash properly or take it with you.
• Participate in volunteer activities such as beach cleanups or native plant restoration.

These are some tips on how to reduce your carbon footprint while traveling in Hawaii. By following these tips, you can enjoy Hawaii’s natural beauty and diversity while being responsible and respectful towards its environment and people.