Hawaiian Environmentalism

Hawaii is a very unique state. The last one to be admitted to the union and one of only two to have been an independent country before US annexation. The Hawaiian Archipelago was formed over a volcanic hot spot in the center of the Pacific Plate. As a result of constant volcanism and geographic isolation, the Hawaiian ecosystem is unlike any other in the world. Approximately 10,000 - 10,500 species are endemic to the archipelago. This translates to 37%-40% of all Hawaiian species being found nowhere else on earth.

Eruption at Kilauea on 5/25/2025. Photographed by Akansh Karthik

The Hawaiian State government has made conservation a top priority due to the value found in its ecosystems. Hawaii has banned plastic bags and non-mineral-based sunscreens, and they have very strict regulations against poaching. For example, the Hawaiian Monk seal, of which there are only 12, is protected by extensive fines for anyone who ever tries to harm one. Even the street lights on the Big Island are sodium-based and emit a unique yellow glow to reduce light pollution. Light pollution disrupts bird migrations, sea turtle hatchlings, and the observational capabilities of the Mauna Kea observatory.

Hawaii is also known for its Reef Manta Rays, massive, gentle giants that filter-feed plankton from the surrounding waters. These Rays typically have a wingspan of 10-12 feet; however, the largest can reach 16 feet. They use their large mouths to filter small plankton from the water, aided by their cephalic lobes. The cephalic lobes are large appendages on the front of their faces that help scoop water and plankton into their mouths. One of Hawaii's more famous Mantas, named "Lefty," is known for only having one cephalic lobe. Her right lobe became infected and paralyzed. When concerned divers noticed her struggles, they decided to amputate her cephalic lobe with box cutters. Throughout the procedure, "Lefty" remained still and was an extremely cooperative patient. A testament to the intelligence of these Rays, as they have the most significant brain-to-body size ratio of any fish.

Up close with Mantas

Swimming with the mantas was an awe-inspiring experience. As I watched the giant mantas gracefully flap their fins, they seemed to dance through the water with an elegance that left me breathless. Their immense size and gentle movements brought them close, allowing me to marvel at the sheer beauty of nature. The encounter was not just a visual spectacle, but a soul-touching moment that reminded me of the profound wonders that our world holds.

The Hawaiian Environmental Protection Act (HEPA) establishes an extensive environmental review process for any project that may impact important natural or cultural sites. It also dramatically increases transparency by forcing developers to disclose many details about their projects and their environmental impact.

Hawaii provides an example for other states to follow in environmental policy. The Hawaiian government has made it a state imperative to protect Hawaii's immense natural beauty, its unique ecosystem, and the cultural heritage of the native Hawaiian people.

The earth will flourish with vibrant oceans, teeming with life, and skies adorned with the songs of birds. Majestic forests will thrive, offering sanctuary to diverse wildlife, while the air will be rich with the scent of blooming flowers and the refreshing breath of abundant oxygen. Our planet will transform into a haven of harmony and beauty if we all embrace the timeless wisdom of the Hawaiian principles.