The Economics of Endangered Species in Hawaii during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted Hawaii’s vulnerable ecosystem of endangered species. Despite some scholars suggesting that the pandemic has offered a silver lining by allowing the environment to regenerate and create a safer habitat for these species, the economic impacts of the pandemic cannot be ignored. This paper aims to explore the economics of endangered species in Hawaii during the COVID-19 pandemic. The reduction in tourism has led to improvements in air quality and traffic congestion, as well as increased conservation efforts. However, the decrease in tourism has also had a negative impact on the economy, as tourism is a significant contributor to Hawaii’s economy. This paper analyzes the economic trade-offs between conservation efforts and economic growth and explore potential solutions to ensure the long-term sustainability of Hawaii’s endangered species and economy.

1. Introduction

Hawaii is home to a unique and diverse range of plant and animal species, many of which are endangered. A report from the US Congress’ Office of Technology Assessment [1] stated that because of being a hub for trade, tourism, and military activities: [T]he Hawaiian Islands represent the worst-case example of the Nation’s NIS (non-indigenous species) problem. No other area in the United States receives as many new species annually, nor has as great a proportion of NIS established in the wild. At the same time, Hawaii, the Nation’s so-called extinction capital, has the greatest concentration of threatened and endangered species in the United States and the greatest number of extinct species as well (p. 234). See Figure 1 for a sample of the endangered species in Hawaii.

Figure 1.

A sample of endangered species in Hawaii.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a substantial impact on Hawaii’s vulnerable ecosystem of endangered species, despite some scholars suggesting that the pandemic has offered a silver lining by allowing the environment to regenerate and create a safer habitat for these species.

Oleson et al. [2] provide a comprehensive overview of the impact of COVID-19 on the economy and environment of Hawaii. It discusses both the negative impacts, such as the loss of jobs and revenue in the tourism industry and the positive impacts, such as the reduction in air pollution and the potential for increased sustainability efforts. They argue that the pandemic provides an opportunity to rethink and transform Hawaii’s economy and society in a more sustainable direction. One of the noticeable impacts is the reduction in tourism, which has also led to a significant reduction in traffic congestion in Hawaii. The lack of tourists and reduced commuting have led to less traffic on the roads, resulting in shorter travel times, reduced emissions, and improved safety. The COVID-19 pandemic has also led to some levels of increased conservation efforts in Hawaii. Several organizations, including the Hawaii Nature Center, have implemented new programs to engage residents in conservation efforts, including beach cleanups, native plant restoration, and wildlife monitoring. The Nature Conservancy [3] provides an overview of the impact of COVID-19 on conservation efforts in Hawaii. It highlights both the challenges and opportunities presented by the pandemic, including disruptions to fieldwork and the need to find new ways of engaging with local communities. The resource also emphasizes the importance of continuing conservation efforts during this time of crisis. Iniguez and D’Antonio [4] focuses on the impact of COVID-19 on ambient noise levels in Hawaii, which decreased significantly due to the reduction in human activity during the pandemic. The authors argue that this reduction in noise pollution could have positive impacts on local wildlife, particularly marine mammals that rely on sound for communication and navigation.

The decrease in tourism seems to have a positive impact on Hawaii’s wildlife. With fewer people visiting popular tourist destinations, such as beaches and parks, wildlife has been able to thrive in their natural habitats without the disturbances caused by human activities. Several endangered species, including the Hawaiian monk seal and green sea turtle, have been observed nesting and laying eggs on beaches that are normally crowded with tourists. This paper comprises several sections that delve into the economics, positive externalities, conservation efforts, and technologies associated with endangered species in Hawaii. The first section provides a general description of the key economic models measuring the values of endangered species, while the second section explores the positive externalities of endangered species. Subsequently, this paper discusses Hawaii’s ongoing efforts to protect these endangered species, followed by an analysis of the technologies utilized in their conservation. This paper concludes with a section on potential solutions to Hawaii’s endangered species.

2. Economics of endangered species in Hawaii

Many literatures explore the use of an economic model to value the endangered species. Diamond and Hausman [5] uses contingent valuation methods to estimate the value of non-market goods, including endangered species. They argue that while contingent valuation has some limitations, it is still a useful tool for policymakers in estimating the economic value of environmental resources. Hanley and Spash [6] uses the cost-benefit analysis (CBA) as a tool for decision-making in environmental policy, including policies related to endangered species. They argue that while CBA has limitations, it is still a valuable tool for policymakers in determining the most efficient use of resources. Pagiola et al. [7] provides a comprehensive overview of methods for assessing the economic value of ecosystem conservation, including the value of endangered species. They argue that while assigning economic values to ecosystem services can be challenging, it is essential for decision-making in environmental policy. This report also provides case studies and examples of successful economic valuation of ecosystem services in practice.

CBA could be used to compare the costs of captive breeding programs for endangered birds in Hawaii versus the benefits of ecotourism revenue generated by the presence of these birds in the wild. Similarly, CBA could be used to compare the costs and benefits of habitat restoration in Hawaii versus the costs and benefits of establishing protected areas. However, it is important to note that CBA has limitations, and the economic value of ecosystem services and endangered species may be difficult to quantify in some cases. Nonetheless, CBA can be a valuable tool for decision-making in environmental policy and can help to ensure that conservation resources are used in the most efficient and effective manner possible.

The presence of endangered species in Hawaii has a significant impact on local communities. For example, the Hawaiian monk seal is a species that is only found in Hawaii, and its survival is crucial for the Hawaiian culture. One of the primary methods of monitoring the Hawaiian Monk seal is through fieldwork. However, due to the pandemic, many of the fieldwork activities had to be suspended or reduced. This reduction in monitoring has made it difficult to track the population of the Hawaiian Monk seal accurately. The lack of monitoring could also make it easier for poachers to hunt these seals. The pandemic has also resulted in a reduction in funding and resources for conservation efforts for the Hawaiian Monk seal. Many conservation programs rely on volunteers and field workers, but the pandemic has made it difficult for these workers to carry out their duties. The reduced funding has also limited the number of conservation efforts that can be undertaken, making it difficult to protect the seals from the threats they face. CVM can be used to estimate the economic value of the Hawaiian monk seal. This would involve surveying individuals in Hawaii and other locations to determine their willingness-to-pay for the conservation of the Hawaiian monk seal. The survey would provide participants with information about the Hawaiian monk seal and its status as a critically endangered species. Participants would then be asked how much they would be willing to pay to support conservation efforts for the Hawaiian monk seal. By using CVM, the economic value of the Hawaiian monk seal and the factors that influence individuals’ willingness-to-pay for its conservation can be revealed. The results of the survey can be used to inform conservation decisions related to the Hawaiian monk seal. For example, if the estimated economic value of the Hawaiian monk seal is high, policymakers may be more likely to allocate resources to its conservation. However, it is important to note that CVM also has limitations, and the results may be influenced by factors such as survey design and participant biases.

Hawaii has experienced a significant loss of species due to various human activities, such as habitat destruction, invasive species, and climate change. The suite of challenges facing island endemic species, including invasive predators and competitors, habitat degradation, and the loss of mutually beneficial species, alongside economic and social challenges lead to a complex decision environment [8]. The loss of species can have a profound impact on the tourism industry in Hawaii. The declining tourism industry would have a significant impact on the state’s economy. With fewer unique species to showcase, Hawaii may struggle to differentiate itself from other tourist destinations, ultimately leading to a reduction in tourism revenue. Even with many diversifying efforts from the Hawaiian governments, the tourism industry remains a critical component of Hawaii’s economy, providing jobs and revenue for many locals. The loss of species can negatively impact the local economy, especially for those involved in the tourism industry. The loss of species can also have a significant impact on the environment of Hawaii. Many species play important roles in the ecosystem, such as pollination and seed dispersal, and their loss can disrupt the delicate balance of the environment. The loss of species can also have ripple effects on other species, leading to a decline in biodiversity, which can ultimately impact the tourism industry in Hawaii. Many of the endangered species in Hawaii are deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture and history. For example, the Hawaiian green sea turtle, known as “honu”, is a revered animal in Hawaiian culture and is often seen as a symbol of good luck and longevity. Protecting these species is not only important for their ecological value but also for their cultural significance.

3. Positive externalities of endangered species

There are several key literatures on the positive externalities of endangered species. Brander and Taylor [9] presents a theoretical model of renewable resource use, specifically focusing on Easter Island as a case study. They argue that the presence of endangered species, such as seabirds, provided positive externalities in the form of ecosystem services and contributed to the sustainability of the island’s economy. This paper highlights the importance of considering positive externalities in the valuation of natural resources, particularly in the context of renewable resource use. Ferraro [10] presents a method for targeting conservation investments in heterogeneous landscapes, considering the positive externalities of endangered species. The author uses a distance function approach to estimate the impact of conservation investments on both economic outcomes and the distribution of ecosystem services, including those provided by endangered species. This paper highlights the importance of considering positive externalities in the design of conservation programs and the potential for targeted conservation investments to generate positive economic outcomes. Ribaudo et al. [11] presents the results of a survey of economists’ opinions on the environmental benefits of conservation practices, including the positive externalities of endangered species. They find that economists generally agree that endangered species provide positive externalities in the form of ecosystem services and that these services should be considered in the valuation of conservation practices. This paper highlights the importance of considering positive externalities in the design of conservation policies and the potential for market-based mechanisms to encourage the provision of ecosystem services.

The first kind of positive externality of endangered species in Hawaii is towards the ecotourism industry. People from all over the world travel to Hawaii to see the unique and rare species that exist only on the islands. This ecotourism industry provides jobs and revenue for the local economy, as well as educational opportunities for tourists. Ecotourism aims to minimize the negative impact of tourism while maximizing its positive impact on the environment and local communities. By encouraging visitors to appreciate the natural beauty of Hawaii, ecotourism helps to protect its unique environment and ecosystem. It provides economic benefits to local communities by creating jobs and supporting small businesses. It also promotes cultural exchange and understanding between tourists and residents as well as provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about Hawaii’s unique environment, culture, and history. Nonetheless, ecotourism has its own negative impact on our environment. Ha and Ha [12] examines the environmental impacts of ecotourism in Hawaii, focusing on the impacts of visitor behavior and the infrastructure needed to support ecotourism activities. They found that while ecotourism can have positive environmental impacts, such as promoting conservation and sustainable practices, it can also have negative impacts, such as damage to natural habitats and increased pollution. This article concludes with recommendations for sustainable ecotourism practices in Hawaii.

The second kind of positive externality of endangered species in Hawaii is reflected in the genetic diversity. Endangered species in Hawaii represent a unique genetic pool that can provide valuable genetic diversity. This diversity can be used to improve the genetic health of other populations and can be used to breed hybrids that may be more resilient to changing environmental conditions. This genetic diversity can also be used for medical research, leading to new treatments and cures. One of the most noticeable impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on genetic diversity in Hawaii has been the decrease in human activity. With travel restrictions and social distancing measures in place, there has been a decrease in the number of people visiting Hawaii. This decrease in human activity has allowed some species to thrive and increase their genetic diversity. For example, the green sea turtle has seen an increase in nesting and hatching success due to reduced human activity on beaches. This increase in nesting success may lead to an increase in genetic diversity, as successful reproduction is crucial for maintaining genetic diversity in populations. While the decrease in human activity has had some positive effects on genetic diversity, there are also potential long-term effects on biodiversity. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of protecting biodiversity and the interconnectedness of ecosystems. Reduced human activity may have unintended consequences on ecosystems, including changes in habitat availability and food availability for species. Kitayama et al. [13] examine the impact of human activities, such as deforestation and invasive species, on the nutrient cycling and soil properties of Hawaiian montane rainforests. They found that these activities can have a significant impact on the health and biodiversity of the ecosystem. This article highlights the importance of preserving intact ecosystems and preventing further degradation to maintain biodiversity.

The third kind of positive externality of endangered species in Hawaii is the ecosystem service. Endangered species in Hawaii provide ecosystem services that are often taken for granted. For example, the Hawaiian hoary bat is a key pollinator for many of Hawaii’s native plant species. These plants, in turn, provide habitat and food for other species, such as the endangered Hawaiian monk seal. Without these ecosystem services, the delicate balance of Hawaii’s unique ecosystem could be disrupted. The silver lining of the COVID-19 pandemic is reflected in this ecosystem service’s relative betterment. The reduction in air and water pollution from reduced tourism and transportation has improved the air and water quality in Hawaii, leading to an increase in ecosystem services such as clean air and water. Additionally, the decrease in human activity has allowed natural habitats to recover, increasing biodiversity and ecosystem functions such as carbon sequestration and soil formation. While the decrease in human activity has had some positive effects on ecosystem services, there are also potential long-term effects on the environment and society. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of protecting and enhancing ecosystem services, which are essential for human well-being and sustainable development. However, the pandemic has also highlighted the vulnerabilities of ecosystems and the need for increased resilience and adaptive management. The decrease in tourism and associated economic activity has affected the ability of local communities to maintain their livelihoods and provide for their families, potentially leading to social and economic challenges. Carrington [14] discusses the link between the destruction of natural habitats and the emergence of zoonotic diseases like COVID-19. It emphasizes the importance of protecting ecosystems and biodiversity to prevent future pandemics. This article highlights the need for policies and legislation to address the root causes of pandemics and promote a green recovery.

4. Efforts to protect endangered species in Hawaii

The state of Hawaii has taken significant steps to protect its endangered species. For example, the state has established several conservation programs to protect endangered species and their habitats. These programs include habitat restoration, captive breeding, and reintroduction programs. The state has also enacted laws and regulations to protect endangered species. The Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973 is a federal law that provides protection for endangered and threatened species and their habitats. Fischman [15] provides an overview of the ESA, its history, and its effectiveness in protecting endangered species. The author argues that the ESA is a powerful tool for protecting endangered species and that its successes can be attributed to its strong legal framework and the support of dedicated professionals and conservation organizations. This paper highlights the importance of political will and public support in the efforts to protect endangered species. Wilcove and Master [16] provides an assessment of the number of endangered species in the United States and the effectiveness of conservation efforts in protecting them. They argue that the ESA has been successful in preventing the extinction of many endangered species, but that additional efforts are needed to recover populations and improve the status of threatened species. This paper highlights the need for continued monitoring and adaptive management in the efforts to protect endangered species. Oates and Myers [17] presents the 1985 International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Animals, which was a significant milestone in the efforts to protect endangered species. The Red List provides a comprehensive assessment of the conservation status of species around the world and has since become a widely recognized tool for identifying and prioritizing conservation efforts. This paper highlights the importance of international collaboration and data sharing in the efforts to protect endangered species.

Hawaii has also enacted state laws to protect endangered species, such as the Hawaii Endangered Species Act. The state has also collaborated with local communities, non-profit organizations, and federal agencies to protect endangered species. These collaborations have been crucial in the success of conservation efforts in Hawaii. For example, the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources has increased their efforts to protect native forest birds, while the University of Hawaii has been studying the effects of reduced human activity on marine mammals. The success of conservation efforts in protecting endangered species in Hawaii during the COVID-19 pandemic has been significant. VanderWerf and Young [18] examines the impacts of COVID-19 on endangered bird conservation efforts in Hawaii. They found that while the pandemic has had some negative impacts on fieldwork, such as reduced funding and volunteer participation, it has also provided some unexpected benefits, such as reduced disturbance from tourists and increased community involvement in conservation efforts. This article provides insights into how unexpected events like pandemics can impact conservation efforts and highlights the importance of community involvement in conservation. Additionally, conservation efforts to remove invasive species and restore native habitats have been successful. The removal of feral cats and rats from the island of Lehua has allowed for the restoration of native bird habitats, resulting in the successful reintroduction of endangered seabirds. While the decrease in human activity has had some positive effects on conservation efforts, there are also potential long-term effects on the environment and society. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of protecting and enhancing conservation efforts, which are essential for the preservation of endangered species and the long-term health of ecosystems. However, the pandemic has also highlighted the vulnerabilities of ecosystems and the need for increased resilience and adaptive management. The decrease in tourism and associated economic activity has affected the ability of local communities to maintain their livelihoods and provide for their families, potentially leading to social and economic challenges.

The Hawaiian culture has a deep connection between people’s livelihood to the land and its natural resources, reflected in the concept of “kuleana”, which refers to one’s responsibility and accountability to care for the environment. Leopold [19] explores the concept of kuleana and argues that incorporating this value into conservation efforts in Hawaii can increase community involvement and support for conservation, as it emphasizes the responsibility of individuals and communities to care for the land and its resources. This article provides insights into the cultural values that can inform and shape conservation efforts in Hawaii and highlights the potential for indigenous values to increase community involvement in conservation.

5. Technology of protecting endangered species in Hawaii

There are several literatures on using technologies to protect endangered species. Shahriar et al. [20] provides an overview of the different technologies that are being used to protect endangered species. They describe the use of GPS tracking, remote sensing, and drones in monitoring and conserving species, as well as the use of genetic analysis and biotechnology in understanding and preserving genetic diversity. This paper highlights the potential of these technologies in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of conservation efforts. Duran et al. [21] provides a comprehensive review of the use of biotechnology in protecting endangered species. They describe the use of techniques such as artificial insemination, embryo transfer, and cryopreservation in preserving genetic diversity and enhancing reproductive success. This paper highlights the potential of biotechnology in improving the genetic health and resilience of endangered species. Gober and Kumar [22] focuses on the use of remote sensing technology in monitoring and managing endangered species. They describe the use of satellite imagery, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and ground-based sensors in detecting and mapping habitats, monitoring populations, and assessing the impacts of environmental changes. This paper highlights the potential of remote sensing technology in improving the efficiency and accuracy of conservation efforts, and the need for continued research and development in this area.

As the world faces an unprecedented rate of biodiversity loss, technology has become an increasingly important tool in protecting endangered species. In Hawaii, new technologies are being developed and implemented to address the threats facing endangered species. See Figure 2 for a glimpse of the technologies used in Hawaii:

Figure 2.

Technologies of protecting endangered species in Hawaii.

The first technology in Figure 2 is the conservation drones, which have become a useful tool in the protection of endangered species in Hawaii. These unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) can be used to monitor and survey wildlife populations, track migration patterns, and detect illegal activities such as poaching and logging. Drones have also proven to be valuable tools in the discovery, inventory, and mapping of rare cliff plants; and due to the difficulty of the on-the-ground survey of cliffs, drones have been deployed across a range of environments leading to the discovery of unknown populations [23]. The other technology is satellite tracking, which has become a popular tool in the protection of endangered species in Hawaii. By attaching satellite tags to animals, researchers can track their movements, migration patterns, and behavior. This information can be used to identify critical habitats, monitor population trends, and develop effective conservation strategies. In Hawaii, satellite tracking has been used to monitor the movements of endangered sea turtles, monk seals, and humpback whales. Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to revolutionize the protection of endangered species in Hawaii. By using machine learning algorithms, AI can analyze large amounts of data, such as satellite imagery, and identify patterns that indicate the presence of endangered species or threats to their habitats. This can help researchers and conservationists identify areas in need of protection and develop effective conservation strategies. In Hawaii, AI has been used to identify nesting sites of the endangered Hawaiian petrel and to monitor the spread of invasive species. AI can also be applied to large groups of animals (e.g., ant colonies and beehives), or implemented for monitoring animals that are often difficult to sample, namely cryptic species such as the nocturnal spotted-tailed quoll or species that cover an extensive range such as seabirds [24]. Virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a tool for raising public awareness and education about endangered species in Hawaii. By using VR technology, people can experience the habitats and behaviors of endangered species and gain a deeper understanding of the threats facing these species and the importance of their protection. In Hawaii, VR has been used to educate visitors and locals about the endangered Hawaiian monk seal and to promote conservation efforts. Putrino et al. [25] provides a review of the use of augmented and virtual reality in wildlife conservation, including its potential applications for education, research, and public outreach. They discuss the potential for virtual reality to create immersive experiences that promote empathy and understanding of environmental issues, as well as its potential for research and monitoring of endangered species. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the potential applications of virtual reality in wildlife conservation and highlights the importance of using technology to enhance conservation efforts.

6. Potential solutions to Hawaii’s endangered species

There are several literatures on giving certain solutions to Hawaii’s specific or general endangered species. Kelly et al. [26] focus on the impact of climate change on Hawaiian forest birds, which are highly endangered due to habitat loss and the introduction of non-native species. They argue that conservation efforts need to consider the potential impacts of climate change on the birds’ habitats, as well as the need for landscape-level management that integrates both natural and cultural values. This paper provides insights into the challenges and opportunities of conserving endangered species in the face of a changing climate. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) provides information on the Hawaiian monk seal and their website outlines the various efforts being undertaken to protect the species, including habitat restoration, predator control, and public education. It also highlights the importance of partnerships between government agencies, conservation organizations, and local communities in the conservation of the species [27]. Tredick et al. [28] discusses the challenges and opportunities of managing endangered species under a changing climate, using the Hawaiian hoary bat as a case study. They argue that effective conservation strategies need to integrate both short-term and long-term climate projections, as well as incorporate adaptive management approaches that allow for ongoing evaluation and adjustment of conservation measures. This paper highlights the need for innovative solutions that balance the protection of endangered species with the realities of a changing world.

With the tourism industry picking up and marching towards the post-pandemic era, the growth of tourism and associated development has again placed significant pressure on Hawaii’s natural resources, threatening the long-term sustainability of both its economy and endangered species. Smith et al. [29] examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on conservation science, including the disruption to fieldwork, funding, and scientific collaboration. They argue that the pandemic has highlighted the need for more resilient and adaptive conservation practices, as well as the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to conservation science. This article provides insights into the impact of the pandemic on conservation science and highlights the need for innovative and adaptive conservation strategies in the post-pandemic era.

In the face of climate change, Hawaii Island’s survival is contingent upon embracing sustainability as a crucial element. Some potential solutions to ensure the long-term sustainability of Hawaii’s endangered species and economy include (1) habitat restoration: the restoration of native habitats can help create safe and suitable environments for endangered species as well as opportunities for eco-tourism, which can provide revenue for local communities while protecting the environment. Habitat restoration efforts can be challenging, requiring significant resources, including funding, expertise, and time. Additionally, restoration efforts must be carefully planned and executed to avoid unintended consequences, such as the introduction of non-native species or the disruption of ecosystems. Despite the challenges, habitat restoration efforts in Hawaii have had some notable successes. For example, the restoration of the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge on the Big Island has led to the recovery of several endangered bird species. Additionally, the restoration of Kāne‘ohe Bay on Oahu has resulted in the return of numerous marine species, including sea turtles and monk seals. (2) Invasive species management: invasive species pose a significant threat to Hawaii’s biodiversity. One solution to manage invasive species is through effective control and eradication programs. Several methods have been used to control invasive species in Hawaii, including mechanical, chemical, and biological control methods. Mechanical methods involve physically removing invasive species, such as through hand-pulling or mowing. Chemical methods involve the use of herbicides or pesticides to control invasive species. Biological control methods involve the introduction of natural enemies of invasive species, such as predators, parasites, or diseases. Eradication programs are designed to eliminate invasive species from a particular area. These programs often require intensive efforts and significant resources. One example of an eradication program in Hawaii is the effort to eradicate the coqui frog, a highly invasive species that has spread across the islands. The program involves the use of a variety of control methods, including hand capture, habitat modification, and the use of acoustic deterrents. Prevention programs often focus on early detection and rapid response to new invasive species introductions. Hawaii has implemented several prevention programs, including the Clean, Drain, and Dry program, which aims to prevent the spread of invasive species through watercraft. Despite the challenges of controlling invasive species, there have been some notable successes in Hawaii. For example, the successful eradication of the Miconia plant from Maui has resulted in the recovery of several native bird species. Additionally, the implementation of the Little Fire Ant Eradication Program has prevented the spread of this invasive species to other islands. (3) Sustainable tourism: tourism is a significant driver of Hawaii’s economy, but it can also be a source of environmental degradation. One potential solution is to shift towards sustainable tourism practices that prioritize the preservation of Hawaii’s natural and cultural resources. This can include promoting eco-tourism, encouraging responsible tourism practices, and implementing sustainable development initiatives. Agriculture is an essential part of Hawaii’s economy, but it can also have a significant impact on endangered species. Sustainable agriculture practices, such as crop rotation and the use of organic fertilizers, can help to reduce the impact of agriculture on endangered species. In addition, sustainable agriculture can help to promote biodiversity by preserving natural habitats and supporting the growth of native plants. (4) Local community engagement: local communities play a vital role in protecting Hawaii’s endangered species and economy. One potential solution is to engage local communities in conservation efforts. This can include providing education and training on sustainable practices, involving local communities in conservation planning and decision-making, and creating economic opportunities that promote conservation. (5) Research and technology: advancements in technology can provide innovative solutions to protect Hawaii’s endangered species and economy. Additionally, research into sustainable tourism practices and conservation strategies can inform policy decisions and help identify effective solutions.

7. Conclusion

Hawaiian culture has a strong connection to the land and the environment, with the concept of “malama aina” emphasizing the importance of caring for and protecting the land. Malama Aina is a central concept in Hawaiian culture, emphasizing the importance of living in harmony with the environment and protecting it for future generations. Native Hawaiians recognized this relationship in the proverb “He ali’i ka ‘aina; he kauwa ke kanaka (The land is a chief; man is its servant [30]. The recognition of limited resources, the cultural ethic of conservation (malama i ka ‘aina, literally to care for that which feeds), and a cultural emphasis on recognizing and documenting changes in Hawaiian ecosystems support active ecological literacy oriented to sustainability [31]. Traditional conservation practices include the concept of “ahupua’a,” which is a system of land management that recognizes the interconnectedness of land, water, and people. In this system, each ahupua’a was managed to ensure the sustainability of resources such as water, fish, and plants. This system helped to prevent overexploitation and ensured the long-term health of ecosystems. Hawaii has one of the highest rates of species extinction in the world, with many of its native species facing extinction due to habitat loss, invasive species, and climate change. Protecting endangered species in Hawaii is critical to preserving the state’s biodiversity and ensuring the long-term health of ecosystems. Current conservation efforts in Hawaii include the restoration of native habitats, the removal of invasive species, and the protection of endangered species through conservation programs and partnerships with local communities. These efforts align with the principles of “malama aina”, emphasizing the importance of caring for the land and preserving its natural resources. Protecting endangered species in Hawaii is critical to preserving the state’s biodiversity and ensuring the long-term health of ecosystems. It is essential to continue promoting and implementing sustainable conservation practices that balance economic, social, and environmental goals and preserve the unique culture and biodiversity of Hawaii for future generations.