Upon returning home to the Sonoran Desert after my first ever trip to Hawaii, I still find myself in a state of awe and wonder. I have explored upwards of 30 countries in landscapes all over the world, and have never experienced an environment quite like the Hawaiian Islands. Simply put, there isn't any other place like it. The lush landscapes, geological spectacles, and oceanic wildlife are an utter miracle, a true testament to our planet and the unique beauty life has the power to create. In fact, my trip was taken with the pure intention to celebrate that magic of life; I was there during two of my favorite days of the year: my birthday, and more importantly, the day after- Earth Day. What I experienced on these two days alone was enough to inspire me for a lifetime: Humpback Whales sang, and as they dove at sunrise, gave us a glimpse of the unique patterns on their tails. We swam with Fish and Eel through Coral Reefs in crystal clear turquoise waters. Sea Turtles played in the waves of a secluded beach as we took a dip. I even witnessed a whale breach in the distance, its body a natural silhouette as the sunset lit up the horizon behind it. These moments, and so many more, are my treasures for life. I made a wish on my birthday for all people to experience moments in life such as this. Moments where you feel yourself among nature, as a beautiful part of the magnificent whole. Tho I cannot simply wish this and expect it to be so, we must promise future generations these same experiences through our actions and choices today.

By now, we all must know of the other “Island” forming and growing exponentially in the Pacific. Just North of the Hawaiian Islands lives The Great Pacific Garbage Patch, an “island” whose existence threatens not only the health of Hawaii’s beautiful marine life, but the health of our entire living planet. According to researchers, the junk floating and sinking in the North Pacific Gyre is comprised predominantly of single-use plastics. These are the things we consumers use once and toss: cups, straws, lids, stir sticks, bottles, bags, packaging, and the list goes on. The Hawaiian Government is currently working toward banning single-use plastics through the bill SB522. This is a giant step in the right direction and I applaud these efforts, but they will take more precious time to enact than our ecosystems have to spare. It is the kuleana (responsibility) of larger companies like Hawaiian Airlines to take the lead in preserving Hawaii’s Kumulipo (a scared tradition of natural resources and the people as its trusted stewards) in this trying time. 

Hawaiian Airlines has been a pioneer in their community for over 90 years, going above and beyond to improve the economic, social, and environmental well being of the islands they serve. Implementing a Zero Waste Policy and Action Plan is directly in line with their “Company Kokua”. Imagine if the millions of guests and residents who traveled to and through the islands via Hawaiian Air were hosted by a company who set a real standard for preserving their island home through conscious consumption. So many alternatives to harmful, wasteful plastic exist. For example: Hawaiian Air could offer one branded, reusable stainless steel cup per guest to be refilled at every beverage service and even brought on future flights, or they could choose to offer something compostable and locally sourced in support of regenerative business in their community, even starting the conversation with guests to encourage them to bring their own beverage container could save literally millions of unnecessary plastics from being introduced into our waste stream and ocean. Lastly, NO, recycling is not enough, nor is it the answer for a number of reasons environmentalists are happy to explain. Our planet NEEDS the human family to introduce long term solutions, changes in behavior, and a circular economy for harmony and abundance to exist.

Thank you Hawaiian Air for providing an incredible service to your community and for being the tool the world uses to join in the experiences your magical home offers. Let’s ensure we are living this luxury as mindfully and with as little expense to our environment as possible, for the longevity of the islands and the kai (ocean resources) is the longevity of your very business. Like the land and the sea, the two cannot be separated. These islands have been around for millennia and have served the human family for generations. We can be the people who preserve that which Mother Nature has worked so tirelessly to create. Hawaiian Airlines, this is your chance to yet again make history and to stand in your integrity. When you do, watch how business improves (us people love to participate in, work for, and put energy/money toward that which is clearly in alignment with our values. It feels good). I speak on behalf of Mother Nature when I say how much this matters to us all. This is your opportunity to set the standard for the industry and uphold Kanaka Maoli (Native Hawaiians) tradition. Show your love for Hawaii by investing in its plastic free future- implement a Zero Waste Policy and comprehensive Action Plan in your 2019 eco-friendly efforts, Mahalo.