The Plastic Problem on the The Big Island: Why Going Green Matters

Hawaiʻi is a paradise renowned for its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. But beneath this beauty lies a growing environmental challenge: plastic waste. On the Big Island alone, the amount of plastic that ends up in our landfills is staggering—and its impact is felt by our ecosystems, marine life, and communities.

Shocking Plastic Waste Statistics

• An estimated 90 million pounds of plastic waste are generated annually in the state Hawaiʻi.
• Of this, only about 10% gets recycled, leaving the rest to be landfilled or, worse, littered into our environment.
• Plastics can take 400–1,000 years to decompose, leaching harmful chemicals into the soil and water.
• A 2023 study revealed that plastic debris makes up 60–80% of marine litter collected from Hawaiian shores.

The Cost to Our ʻĀina (Land) and Ocean

Plastic pollution doesn’t just mar Hawaiʻi’s natural beauty—it threatens the very ecosystems that make the islands so unique. Marine animals like honu (sea turtles) and monk seals often mistake plastic for food, leading to ingestion that can be fatal. Coral reefs, already under stress from climate change, are further damaged by microplastics settling into their fragile ecosystems.

How We Can Make a Difference

At Mahalo Soap, we believe that every choice matters. By reducing our reliance on single-use plastics and embracing sustainable alternatives, we can help curb this plastic tide. Here are a few ways to make a positive impact:

1. Switch to plastic-free products: Opt for items like our bar soaps that are free from plastic packaging and our cleaning supplies that we package in refillable glass bottles with as little plastic as possible. Switch to bamboo toothbrushes and scrubbing brushes instead of plastic.
2. Support local cleanup efforts: Join or donate to beach cleanup initiatives on the Big Island.
3. Educate and inspire others: Share the importance of sustainability with friends and family.

Our Commitment to Sustainability

Mahalo Soap was founded on the belief that clean living and environmental stewardship go hand in hand. By creating non-toxic, biodegradable products and packaging them in as little plastic as possible, we aim to reduce waste and protect Hawaiʻi’s delicate ecosystems for future generations.

Together, we can turn the tide on plastic waste and restore balance to our beautiful island home. Let’s make a commitment to mālama ʻāina (care for the land)—one small change at a time.

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For more information about our products and sustainability mission, visit our online shop. Mahalo for being part of the solution!

Sources:

• Hawaiʻi State Department of Environmental Management
• NOAA Marine Debris Program