Hawaii Ecotourism Association

Enter ecotourism. The Hawaii Ecotourism Association defines this type of travel and adventure as “nature- and culture-based tourism that is ecologically sustainable and supports the well-being of local communities”. This means that simply put, your visit should minimally impact the plants, animals, ocean, air, and people you encounter during your time as a guest. And, like any good guest, you should strive to make your visit as positive as possible for your gracious host.

We all know that it’s just good practice to be an agreeable guest, but in the case of Hawaii’s tourism industry, it is of the utmost importance that we understand how our actions affect the state’s fragile ecosystems and why it’s so important to care for them.

Hawaii is home to approximately 150 different ecosystems, many of which are so unique that the islands form their own distinct global bioregion. These ecosystems range from subterranean lava tube systems to snowy alpine deserts, to tropical dry forests, and windy coastal dunes. Unfortunately, many of these ecosystems are in trouble- with some estimates that nearly half are in peril. Many have been negatively affected by human-related changes in the landscape, whether through the introduction of non-native plants and animals, habitat loss, climate change, or the exploitation of resources. This is especially concerning because over 90% of Hawaii’s flora and fauna is endemic- the highest rate of any place on the planet.

Sadly, the Aloha State also has another distinction: it is known as “The Endangered Species Capital of the World”, as at least 1/3 of all endangered species in the U.S. make their homes here. The state also holds the title of “Bird Extinction Capital of the World”, as at least 71 of 113 bird species found nowhere else on Earth have become extinct; with 33 of the remaining 42 on the Endangered Species List- 10 of which haven’t been seen in over a decade and are likely extinct.

Additionally, Hawaii’s delicate coral reef system is threatened by several factors, including misuse by visitors. The state’s living reef ecosystem encompasses 410,000 acres- that’s greater than Oahu’s total landmass. Yet, worldwide, reefs make up less than 1% of the underwater ecosystem, but help protect 25% of all marine species. The Hawaiian reefs are often referred to as the “rainforest of the sea”, as they play host to over 7,000 known species of plants and animals; more than 1,250 of which can be found solely within these Hawaiian ecosystems. Not only do we need to protect the coral reefs for the direct benefit of these marine species, but also for the health of our shorelines, in order to support sustainable fisheries, to keep the sustainable tourist industry healthy, and to be able to responsibly enjoy these undersea wonders for generations to come. If that weren’t enough, did you know that many of our medical treatments come directly from resources found in the world’s oceans? Drugs used to treat asthma, arthritis, and cancer can be traced to marine sources. In fact, a leading coral reef ecologist posits that we are 300-400 times more likely to discover new drugs from our oceans than on land.

Basically, without coral reefs, Hawaii simply would not be Hawaii:

• Without the reefs, there would be no beaches. Beach sand is comprised mainly of coral fragments, urchin, shell, and calcified algae, as well as other tiny organisms in the ocean.
• Reefs make Hawaii a big wave surfer’s dream. The shape of the reefs helps determine the size of the waves. Without reefs, the state’s world famous breaks would not exist.
• Thanks to the reefs, Hawaii is home to millions of species of marine life, many of which can be found nowhere else on the planet. Reefs provide food and shelter that fish need to survive and thrive- no reef, no fish.
• Hawaii’s tourist industry can thank the reefs for helping make it one of the world’s top tourist destinations. Beautiful beaches, SCUBA, snorkeling, and diving rank as some of the most popular visitor activities.
• Because of the reefs, native Hawaiians were outstanding watermen/women and excelled at being reef stewards. Reefs provided food, leisure activities, and spiritual well-being that formed the basis of the Hawaii we enjoy today.

Guide Of US-Hawaii Partners

Committed to Sustainability and Conservation

Conserving the state’s fragile ecosystem is imperative, and we here at Hawaii Guide strongly believe that we are all stewards of this magical place. As such, we have a responsibility to malama pono Hawaii nei- care rightly for Hawaii; and being ‘green’ is the best way to conserve the state’s natural and cultural riches for future generations of plants, animals, and humans, all of whom depend on Hawaii’s delicate ecosystems. We are proud of our partnerships with tour companies and activity providers that are committed to sustainability and conservation, and to making sure you have an incredible adventure. We encourage you to support them: