Land & Water

Good news and bad news about how
we treat our most precious resources

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GENERATING &
USING POWER

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Environment Map

This systems map shows how Hawaii’s natural beauty actually creates forces that threaten it, including development and large numbers of visitors

Key Factors

Hawaii’s beauty and natural resources make it an attractive place to live for locals and outsiders. Local demand for housing is driven by population growth and retention. Outside demand is enhanced by public- and private-sector marketing of Hawaii as paradise. Demand for a “piece of paradise” drives development – often in scenic and undeveloped areas. This sparks local protectionism, resulting in both conservation efforts and increased advocacy for environmental policies.