Nonprofit Leader of the Year 2024: John Leong, CEO of Kupu
His extensive leadership experience and unwavering vision has built Kupu into a powerhouse environmental nonprofit.
Climate Change & Nature
Removing Ghost Nets from the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands
Papahānaumokuākea Marine Debris Project has collected 786,287 pounds of derelict fishing nets and other debris from the vast Hawaiian archipelago.
Restoration of He‘eia Fishpond Nears a Major Milestone
Paepae o He‘eia has spent decades removing mangroves and rebuilding the fishpond wall. The nonprofit is now gearing up to start sustainable fish production.
My Job Is Protecting Lāna‘i’s Wildlife
Pūlama Lāna‘i’s lead wildlife biologist Grazel Caceres helps protect the island’s endemic, and often endangered, animals and plants.
Six Steps for Making Your Home More Wildfire-Resistant
Wildfires are on the rise in Hawai‘i. Here are ways to protect homes and neighborhoods.
Turning Local Crops into Lucrative Food and Beverage Startups
The new Wahiawā Value-Added Product Development Center rents equipment and space for small businesses to ramp up production.
Making Rum from Sugar Cane in Hale‘iwa
Kō Hana Distillery grows 34 varieties of sugar cane, which goes “straight from farm to bottle.”
Simonpietri Enterprises Turns Demolition and Construction Waste into Energy
2024 SmallBiz Editor’s Choice Award winner: President Joelle Simonpietri helps supply O‘ahu with renewable gas and jet fuel, with new ventures on the way.
U.S. Military Works with Local Partners to Protect Hawai‘i’s Natural Environment
In 2024, nearly $10 million in defense spending is going to habitat preservation, reforestation, watershed protection, and flood and wildfire mitigation.
These Eco-Friendly Surfboards Are Made from Invasive Trees
Bizia Surf sources unwanted albizia wood to make alaias and other hand-crafted boards.
