CONSERVATION TIPS

~For the Health of Our Environment~

Every day we hear about problems which affect our global environment. Some problems are noticed very far away from where we are. Others are right in our back yard. Although these problems seem to be the responsibility of the Government or an industry, there are ways we can help, too. If we all worked together, simple changes could make a huge difference. Here are some ways to help the land and the sea today and for the future.

 

 

TO SAVE THE OCEANS AND OUR MARINE LIFE

• Don't walk on the coral reef. The tiny creatures responsible for building the reef can be crushed under your weight. The coral reefs protect our shorelines from massive erosion and provide habitat for countless species of fish, and other marine life.
• Along the shoreline and at home, bag that trash. Plastics, which often escape from open dumpsters or landfills, can make their way into our oceans where fish, turtles and other marine life mistake them for food (jellyfish). Many sea creatures ingest these plastics and starve or suffocate as a result.
• Properly dispose of used motor oil, acid from car batteries, household grease, chemicals and other toxic substances... don't pour them down the drain and don't allow them to run off into storm drains. Carefully read the labels on lawn chemicals and use them sparingly. Use phosphate-free laundry detergent.
• Report abandoned cargo nets and fishing nets to proper authorities when you spot them on the shoreline and in the water. If in the water, do not try to remove them yourself. Many marine creatures drown in the nets each year and you could be next. All gillnets must be checked every two hours and removed from the water after four hours. That's the law.

 

 

TO CARE FOR THE `AINA

• Pack in what you pack out, and if you see trash on a trail, pick it up and dispose of it properly.
• If you hike in a weed infested area, clean your boots thoroughly. By doing so, you can help prevent the spread of intrusive alien plants in pristine ecosystems.
• Return unwanted pets to pet stores. Don't release them into the wild. Cats, dogs, aquarium plants and fish, birds have all had an impact on native species and the ecosystem.
• Do not introduce alien species (like snakes, fire ants Miconia) to Hawai`i. Accidental and intentional introductions are a major threat to native species as well as the State's economy.
• Plant trees, flowers and shrubs and care for them. You can also volunteer to do this in parks or other public areas.
• Mow your lawn a little less often and use grass clippings and leaves in a compost pile. Recycle Christmas trees after the holidays to help maintain our public parks and green areas.
• Separate cans, glass and newspapers for recycling. In offices, start a paper recycling effort. Every bit you save for recycling means less in our already overflowing landfills.
• Drive your car less. Carpool with others and combine trips whenever possible. Even the rubber from your worn tires, shoes and slippers are forms of pollution.
• Teach a child that we can all make a difference in the health of our environment.
• Share this tip list with friends. 

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