Summer is the season for beach days, park visits, hikes, and getaways – but all that activity can generate a surprising amount of waste. Whether you’re heading into the city or out into nature, trash cans aren’t always nearby. That’s why the choices you make before and during your adventures matter. By minimizing what you toss and properly disposing of what you do use, you can help keep our islands clean and protect our oceans by reducing the amount of litter on the ground and in our storm drains.
Here are a few easy ways to reduce your waste while exploring this summer:
Avoid single-use products. Bringing your own reusable gear can make a big difference. Pack a reusable water bottle or cup. Planning a party or potluck? Bring a water jug instead of a case of individually bottled drinks. Keep reusable utensils, containers, and bags in your car or backpack so they’re always on hand.
Snack smart. Individually wrapped snacks like chips and candy may be convenient, but their packaging is often the first thing blown out of a car or beach bag. Choose snacks you can portion out at home into reusable containers. Fresh fruit with natural packaging – like bananas, oranges, guavas, or apples – is a great low-waste option.
Leave no trace. Whether you’re at a beach park, hiking trail, or lookout point, take the motto “Pack In, Pack Out” to heart and pack everything you bring with you when you leave. Even seemingly harmless items such as fruit peels and “biodegradable” wipes can attract pests, introduce bacteria, or clog storm drains.
Know where your trash goes. When trash ends up in a bin, it typically goes to the landfill. Recyclables should be sorted out whenever possible so they can be repurposed. And remember – Hawaiʻi’s storm water isn’t filtered. That means crumbs, wrappers, or even empty sunscreen tubes left behind can wash straight into the ocean.
Pack a zero-waste kit. Make your summer adventures easier and more eco-friendly by creating a simple zero-waste kit. Include a water bottle, utensils, cloth napkin, or towel, and a small trash bag. Keep it somewhere easily accessible and you’ll always be prepared to reduce waste on the go!
