Travel for a Cause presents a variety of sustainable tourism opportunities on the Big Island of Hawaii, embracing ethical practices and eco-friendly solutions.

Protecting the Big Island’s Environment

Eco-Friendly Strategies for a Travel for a Cause: Big Island Hawaii Program

Travel for a Cause is a unique program designed to aid environmental conservation and promote eco-friendly strategies while exploring the beautiful landscapes of Big Island, Hawaii. This 1-2 week program seeks to minimize the ecological impact tourists have on the island, as well as develop and implement sustainable practices for the local community. To achieve this goal, several eco-friendly strategies will be incorporated during the program.

1. Low-impact Travel

To reduce our carbon footprint, we will encourage participants to choose eco-friendly transportation options, both for their flights to Hawaii and for getting around Big Island. Airlines with active carbon offset programs will be prioritized. Additionally, group transportation will rely on electric or hybrid vehicles, and participants will be encouraged to walk, cycle, or use public transport.

2. Sustainable Accommodation

Participants will stay at eco-friendly accommodation that focuses on minimizing energy and water wastage. These lodgings utilize solar panels, LED lighting, low-flow faucets, and other sustainable technologies. Linen and towel re-use programs are also implemented to reduce laundry frequency, saving both water and energy.

3. Local and Organic Dining

Meals offered during the program will focus on locally sourced and organic ingredients to reduce food mileage and promote sustainable agriculture. By eating at local eateries that support organic farming, we contribute to the local economy and maintain a smaller environmental impact.

4. Leave No Trace

Participants will be educated on Leave No Trace principles which advocate for responsible outdoor behavior. This includes minimizing waste, respecting wildlife, and leaving sites as they were found. Additionally, reusable bags, water bottles, and containers will be provided to travellers to avoid single-use plastics.

5. Environmental Education and Awareness

Throughout the program, participants will attend workshops and presentations on local ecology, conservation efforts, and sustainable practices. By deepening their understanding of the island’s delicate ecosystems, they will be better equipped to protect them and to implement eco-friendly practices in their daily lives.

6. Volunteering and Community Engagement

One of the core aspects of the program is participating in environmental conservation and community projects. Participants will aid in beach clean-ups, native forest restoration, wildlife monitoring, and other efforts that directly contribute to protecting the environment and supporting local communities.

7. Carbon Offset Programs

To further mitigate the carbon footprint associated with the program, a portion of the trip cost will be directed towards certified carbon offset projects, such as reforestation or renewable energy initiatives.

8. Supporting Local Businesses

By purchasing goods and services from local businesses, the program promotes the local economy and reduces the ecological impact caused by importing products from great distances.

Through these eco-friendly strategies, the Travel for a Cause: Big Island Hawaii Program sets a positive example for sustainable tourism. Participants will not only experience the island’s unique beauty but also contribute to preserving it for future generations. By educating travellers and implementing these environmentally conscious practices, the program encourages responsible and sustainable travel habits.

Authentic Cultural Experiences

Authentic Cultural Experiences on Big Island Hawaii: Engaging with Local Communities

Hawaii’s Big Island, known for its diverse landscape and rich cultural history, offers visitors an array of authentic experiences that cannot be found elsewhere. Engaging with local communities provides a unique opportunity for travelers to delve deep into the true essence of Hawaiian culture, learning about its traditions, stories, and heritage.

1. Hawaiian Culture in Local Communities

Volcanoes, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches make the Big Island an ideal destination for exploring authentic Hawaiian culture. To have an authentic experience, visitors are encouraged to connect with several communities on the Big Island who embrace their local heritage and take pride in preserving their way of life.

2. Kohala Coast

The Kohala Coast is the birthplace of Kamehameha the Great, the Hawaiian king who united the archipelago. The Lapakahi State Historical Park allows visitors to better understand traditional Hawaiian lifestyles through restored structures, historical artifacts, and cultural workshops. Visitors can also learn about the awe-inspiring Mo’okini Heiau, an ancient Hawaiian temple.

3. Puna’s Local Arts Scene

The Puna district on the Big Island is renowned for its vibrant art scene that showcases local artists and their crafts. Engaging with communities in the area presents the opportunity to learn about traditional Hawaiian crafts, such as weaving lauhala mats, carving tikis, and creating adornments from shells and feathers.

4. Coffee Farm Tours in Kona

Kona coffee is world-famous for its smooth and distinct flavor. By visiting one of the many family-owned coffee farms, visitors can learn different coffee processing techniques directly from local farmers. These farm tours include sharing the fascinating history of Kona coffee and sampling some of the best brews on the island.

5. Merrie Monarch Festival

Held annually in Hilo, the Merrie Monarch Festival is a highly anticipated event celebrating the art of hula dance in remembrance of King David Kalākaua. Here, visitors can witness world-class hula performances, learn traditional dance moves, and gain insight into Hawaiian stories and songs through the chant, oli.

6. Astronomy and Cultural Stories

The Big Island’s Mauna Kea Summit offers stargazing enthusiasts unparalleled views of the night sky. At the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station, visitors can engage with cultural practitioners who share Hawaiian mo’olelo (stories) and navigation techniques that ancient Hawaiians used for ocean voyages.

True engagement with local communities on Hawaii’s Big Island fosters a genuine understanding of and appreciation for the rich history and cultural heritage. By participating in cultural experiences, visitors create connections that transform their impressions of Hawaii into meaningful and unforgettable memories.

Green Partnerships

Embracing Green Partnerships: Sustainable Accommodation and Transportation

As global awareness of the importance of environmental conservation grows, green partnerships are becoming more and more essential to promoting eco-friendly practices in various industries. The tourism sector too has undergone tremendous transformation, from offering luxurious stays, once deemed for the select few, to now ensuring that travelers can enjoy environmentally-conscious experiences. Embracing green partnerships, Big Island Hawaii is showcasing collaboration with eco-conscious partners in the accommodation and transportation sectors. These partnerships aim to create sustainable and responsible tourism models, offering eco-conscious alternatives for travelers to the island.

Eco-Friendly Accommodations on Big Island Hawaii

Big Island Hawaii partners with some of the most environmentally responsible accommodations to create an unforgettable, green vacation experience. These accommodations focus on reducing their environmental impact and promoting eco-conscious practices such as recycling programs, energy-saving initiatives, and eco-education for visitors. Some of the notable eco-friendly accommodations in Big Island Hawaii include:

1. Hawaii Island Retreat – This luxury boutique hotel is the epitome of a sustainable and green stay. Nestled in a 50-acre eco-sanctuary, it relies entirely on solar energy and grows organic produce used in their opulent, farm-to-table cuisine. The Retreat also practices water and waste conservation, and promotes local culture and heritage.
2. Fern Forest Treehouse – A unique eco-friendly bed and breakfast, the Fern Forest Treehouse provides an authentic treehouse experience amidst lush, jungle surroundings. The treehouse uses solar power, natural ventilation and lighting, as well as locally-sourced materials. Rainwater catchment systems are in place to conserve water resources.

Green Transportation Solutions around Big Island

To decrease the environmental impact of transportation, Big Island Hawaii has collaborated with green transportation partners—with a focus on electric and hybrid vehicles. These vehicle options not only reduce carbon emissions but also contribute to a quieter and healthier environment. Some green transportation solutions endorsed by Big Island Hawaii include:

1. Big Island EV Rentals – A car rental agency dedicated to providing electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles to visitors in Big Island Hawaii. Visitors can explore the island without contributing to air pollution and lowering their carbon footprint.
2. Hele-On Bus – This is the public transportation system that serves Big Island. With a commitment to the environment and public well-being, the County of Hawai’i Mass Transit Agency is gradually transitioning its fleet to energy-efficient, low-emission vehicles, including hybrid diesel.

Partnering with sustainability-focused tour operators

Green partnerships extend beyond accommodations and transportation, as tour operators are equally committed to sustainable practices. Big Island Hawaii works with eco-friendly tour operators who promote cultural and natural heritage conservation, providing environmentally responsible and educative tour experiences. They aim to minimize the ecological impact and foster visitor’s understanding and appreciation for the local environment.

Big Island Hawaii has set an exemplary model in fostering green partnerships for sustainable tourism. By collaborating with eco-conscious partners, the island is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and preserving its rich natural heritage for future generations. As visitors choose to stay in environmentally-friendly accommodations and utilize green transportation, they contribute to the development of responsible tourism and help in safeguarding the pristine beauty of Big Islandh Hawaii. Together, these green partnerships allow everyone to enjoy a memorable vacation experience without compromising the environment.

Educational programs and workshops

Below is a list of educational programs and workshops on Big Island, Hawaii, focused on sustainable living and environmental protection.

1. Hawaii Institute of Pacific Agriculture (HIPAg): Offers various workshops and training programs on sustainable farming, permaculture design, and agroforestry.

Website: http://www.hipagriculture.org/

2. Hawaii County Resource Center: Hosts seminars and workshops on waste reduction, recycling, composting, and other sustainable living practices.

Website: http://www.hawaiizerowaste.org/

3. The Kohala Center: Provides workshops and courses on a variety of topics, such as renewable energy, agricultural practices, and natural resource management.

Website: http://kohalacenter.org/

4. Big Island Invasive Species Council (BIISC): Offers workshops and training programs to control and prevent invasive species, promoting a healthier and more resilient ecosystem.

Website: https://www.biisc.org/

5. One Island Sustainable Living Center: Provides workshops and events to help foster sustainable living practices, including permaculture, organic gardening, and renewable energy education.

Website: http://www.oneisland.org/hawaii/

6. Volcano Art Center: Offers environmental programs that incorporate art, creativity, and native Hawaiian culture while educating about the importance of preserving the local ecosystem.

Website: https://volcanoartcenter.org/

7. Hawaii Wildlife Center: Conducts workshops and educational programs on wildlife rehabilitation, ecosystem protection, and the significance of native species.

Website: https://www.hawaiiwildlifecenter.org/

8. Sustainable Kohala: Organizes workshops and informational sessions focused on sustainability topics such as water conservation, waste management, and local food systems.

Website: http://www.sustainablekohala.com/

9. The Paleaku Peace Gardens Sanctuary: Offers classes and workshops on permaculture, organic gardening, and native Hawaiian ethnobotany.

Website: https://www.paleaku.com/

10. Malama Kai Foundation: Provides coastal stewardship programs and educational activities to protect Hawaii’s coral reefs and marine wildlife.

Website: https://www.malamakai.org/

These programs and workshops aim to teach and engage the community in sustainable living practices while appreciating the unique natural beauty of Big Island, Hawaii.