How to reduce waste and promote sustainable practices while vacationing on Big Island Hawaii

Hawaii is a dream destination for many travelers, who come to enjoy its stunning natural beauty, diverse culture, and warm hospitality. But Hawaii is also a fragile ecosystem that faces many environmental challenges, such as climate change, invasive species, water scarcity, and waste management. As a visitor, you have the power to make a positive difference by reducing your waste and supporting sustainable practices while vacationing on Big Island Hawaii. Here are some tips on how to do that.

Choose eco-friendly accommodation

One of the first steps to plan a sustainable vacation is to choose an accommodation that respects 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, you can stay at the Surfjack Hotel and Swim Club in Waikiki, which was the first hotel in Waikiki to eliminate single-use plastic and offers free reef-safe sunscreen dispensers¹. Or you can book a room at the Fairmont Kea Lani on Maui, which offers a Hawaiian Cultural Program with classes on language, legends, and plants².

Support local businesses

Another way to reduce your environmental impact and contribute to the local economy is to support local businesses that offer authentic and sustainable products and services. For example, you can 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 Island³. You can also shop at local markets and boutiques that sell handmade crafts and souvenirs made from natural or recycled materials. And you can join tours and activities that are operated by local guides who respect the nature and culture of Hawaii.

Engage in nature-based tourism

Hawaii is a paradise for nature lovers, with its diverse landscapes, wildlife, and plants. 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 nature-based tourism 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.

Reduce your carbon footprint

Finally, you can reduce your carbon footprint by choosing low-emission transportation options whenever possible. For example, you can fly with Hawaiian Airlines, which reduces fuel consumption by lightening cargo on their flights¹. You can also use public transportation or rent a bike or an electric car to get around the island. And you can offset your carbon emissions by donating to organizations that plant trees or support renewable energy projects in Hawaii.

By following these tips, you can reduce your waste and promote sustainable practices while vacationing on Big Island Hawaii. You can also enjoy a more authentic and meaningful experience that connects you with the land and the people of Hawaii. And you can help preserve this beautiful destination for future generations.

Source:
(1) Sustainable Hawaii – How to reduce your carbon footprint on your Hawaii …. https://www.hawaii-aloha.com/podcast/2023/05/07/sustainable-hawaii/.
(2) What to Know About Environmentally Sustainable Tourism in Hawaii. https://www.themanual.com/travel/environmentally-sustainable-tourism-hawaii/.
(3) How to visit Hawaii without totally destroying it – Lonely Planet. https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/sustainable-hawaii.
(4) (PDF) What Tourists Want, a Sustainable Paradise – ResearchGate. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/358462295_What_Tourists_Want_a_Sustainable_Paradise.
(5) What Tourists Want, a Sustainable Paradise – MDPI. https://www.mdpi.com/2673-5768/3/1/13.