The Great Outdoors

June is Great Outdoors Month, and for most of the country, Memorial Day is the kickoff to the outdoor season. 

Here in Hawaii we are blessed with a temperate climate and enjoy the great outdoors year-round. Visitors from all over the world flock to the islands to partake in the sun, surf, sandy beaches and hiking trails. 

While outdoor recreating is good for the mind and body, it does mean that our public spaces get a lot of use.

And whether you are an environmentalist, naturalist, hobbyist, or someone with local pride, there are guidelines to follow when experiencing nature’s bounty. 

 Rule one 

Pack out what you pack in. Lessen the amount of rubbish that you need to dispose of by using reusable, durable containers. Bring a water bottle, thermos, cooler, picnic basket or tin lunch. When you leave, take your belongings with you, to wash and store at home for your next outing.

Rule two 

Respect the ‘aina (land). Show mercy and consideration by disposing of recyclable items properly. Seek out the blue recycle bins at parks, rest stops, trail heads and stores. Adopting resource conservation values into practice ensures that the great outdoors will be around for others to use and appreciate.

Rule three

Use what you have on hand. Thousands of visitors have come and gone to these islands before you. If you need beach supplies or are looking to self-cater, peruse the secondhand stores for gently used items. Vacation rental owners, visit thrift stores and stock your units with tote bags, beach chairs, coolers and sun umbrellas.

Rule four 

Leave things in better condition than when found. This can be as simple as carrying an extra bag or bucket with you for trash. Have a plan in place as to who in your party will be taking the trash, taking the recyclables, taking the compostables, washing the dishes and storage containers. Leave the grounds in good condition for the next group. 

If you see garbage or cigarette butts, take action and pick it up. Encourage your fishing buddies, kids, neighbors or tourists alike to do the same. 

The duty to care and protect our natural resources, livelihoods, and homelands is everyone’s responsibility.

Extra mile

Go the extra mile and join an organization bringing about environmental awareness. Some examples of such groups are Sierra Club, Surfrider, Audubon Society or a local church. Participate in a beach cleanup, pick up trash alongside the highway, refurbish native wildlife habitat or help with trail head restoration.

Even though conservation, preservation and restoration of our public spaces start with the actions of the individual, it is our society and community as a whole that benefits. 

•Laura Kelly works as a recycling specialist in Hawaii. She can be contacted at kellyfeedback@gmail.com