Latest sustainability & resources news and updates
Leidos has secured a three-year, $127 million contract to continue administering Hawaii Energy, the state's energy conservation program. This extension comes at a critical juncture, with federal energy policies facing uncertainty, potentially impacting the availability of Energy Star certifications and other efficiency tools.
The Pacific Whale Foundation (PWF) continues its vital work in protecting Maui's marine environment, having removed over 12,000 pounds of harmful debris in 2025. This effort underscores the importance of sustainability and community partnerships in preserving Hawaii's natural resources and supporting local businesses.
The Maui Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has finished its Wildfire Risk Reduction Project near Ukumehame, focusing on removing hazardous fuels from a 42-acre area along the Honoapiʻilani Highway. This initiative, crucial for protecting lives and infrastructure, particularly the key route connecting Central and West Maui, comes after the area experienced numerous wildfires in recent years.
The State of Hawaii has launched a new biosecurity website that will serve as a central hub for information and data related to the management of invasive species. This initiative aims to improve coordination, transparency, and public engagement in the ongoing fight to protect Hawaii's unique environment and economy.
A recent letter to the editor suggests nuclear fusion could offer a viable alternative to Hawaii's current renewable energy strategies, addressing concerns about the limitations of existing approaches. This shift could significantly impact the state's energy landscape, presenting both challenges and opportunities for local businesses and investors.
Ocean Defenders Alliance volunteers are actively removing vast quantities of fishing lines and lead from Hawaii's coastal areas, contributing to critical marine ecosystem restoration. These dedicated efforts have a positive impact on both environmental sustainability and the local economy.
The City and County of Honolulu is taking significant steps to reduce landfill waste, with initiatives ranging from e-waste recycling to planned food waste collection. These efforts, spearheaded by the Department of Environmental Services, are creating both challenges and opportunities for Hawaii's entrepreneurs, investors, and the broader business community, particularly in the realm of sustainable practices and waste management.
East Maui residents are encouraged to participate in a metals and electronics recycling event scheduled for December 5th and 6th, 2025. This initiative, organized by the County of Maui, aims to promote responsible disposal of various household and commercial items, impacting local businesses and the environment.
The first coral specimens have been collected for Kauaʻi's pioneering coral restoration nursery, marking a significant step in preserving the island's marine ecosystems. This initiative, part of a larger statewide effort, holds implications for local businesses, particularly those reliant on tourism and the health of the island's natural resources.
A West Maui resident's letter highlights the escalating water dispute involving Maui Land & Pineapple, the state, the county, and Kapalua Golf, urging a move away from litigation and towards cooperation. The ongoing conflict has significant implications for tourism, real estate, and the overall business environment in the region.
Kaheawa Wind Power LLC, operator of Maui's first wind farm, is seeking a 20-year lease extension to continue operations above Māʻalaea. This move underscores the ongoing commitment to renewable energy sources on the island and offers implications for local businesses and investors.
Puna Geothermal Venture (PGV) is seeking to increase its power output by 5 megawatts, a move that would further solidify its position as a key renewable energy provider for Hawaii Island. This expansion is part of the company's 'Repower Project' aimed at modernizing its facility and increasing efficiency, with potential implications for local businesses and investors.
The Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity (DAB) is now accepting applications for its 2026 Compost Reimbursement Program. This initiative provides crucial financial relief to local agricultural operations by reimbursing a portion of their compost and transportation costs, supporting sustainable farming practices across the islands.
State water regulators are re-evaluating groundwater pumping limits in Central Maui, a move that could significantly impact local businesses, real estate development, and water resource management. The clarification follows data analysis regarding current water withdrawals exceeding sustainable yield estimates.
Hawai'i residents have a unique opportunity to recycle old refrigerators and freezers while simultaneously supporting local food banks. The "Rid-A-Fridge" program and similar initiatives offer a sustainable solution to appliance disposal and address food insecurity in the community.
Hawaii's solar energy sector faces an uncertain future as federal tax credits for rooftop solar installations end in December 2025, potentially hindering the state's leading position in per capita solar adoption. This shift creates both challenges and opportunities for local businesses and investors.
Hawaiian Electric announced this week that approximately 47% of single-family homes in Maui County now utilize rooftop solar energy systems. This significant milestone underscores the island's commitment to renewable energy and its potential implications for local businesses and investors.
Hawaii's solar industry is experiencing a surge in installations, with almost half of Oahu's single-family homes now equipped with rooftop solar systems. However, the impending expiration of federal tax credits presents significant challenges to the industry's future, potentially leading to market 'disruption'.
A recent letter published in the Star-Advertiser raises critical questions about water usage in West Maui, pointing fingers at hotels and the potential obfuscation of data regarding water control and consumption. This scrutiny comes as Maui grapples with chronic water shortages, impacting both the tourism industry and local communities.
Hawaii's solar industry is experiencing a surge in installations, with nearly half of Oahu's single-family homes now equipped with rooftop solar systems. However, the impending expiration of federal tax credits at the end of the year casts a shadow of uncertainty over the industry's future, potentially disrupting its recent growth.