At Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary, we believe Earth Month is about reconnecting—with nature, with the ʻāina, and with the small choices that shape our impact. Whether you live on the Big Island or are just visiting, here are 5 easy sustainability swaps that are as kind to the planet as they are simple to start.
1. Swap: Plastic Takeout Containers for Reusable Tupperware or Bento Box
Why?
Takeout is convenient, but the single-use plastic? Not so much. Styrofoam and plastic clamshells are rarely recyclable, and in Hawaiʻi, they often end up polluting beaches or blowing into the ocean.
Do Instead:
Pack a lightweight bento box or stainless steel container when heading out for food. Many local spots are happy to put your meal inside if you ask with a smile (and a little aloha).
Where to Get It:
• Keep It Simple and Target Kona for stainless steel options • Or try a collapsible silicone container that fits in your beach bag!
2. Swap: Plastic Dish Sponges for Compostable or Natural Fiber Alternatives
Why?
Those neon yellow kitchen sponges? They’re made of plastic and break down into microplastics with every scrub. They also harbor bacteria and end up in the landfill after just a few weeks.
Do Instead:
Switch to compostable sponges, coconut husk scrubbers, or wood-handled dish brushes. They last longer, clean just as well, and can return to the earth when you’re done.
Where to Get It:
• Check Island Naturals, farmers markets, or local zero waste refill stations • Or order a multi-pack of biodegradable options online
3. Swap: Bottled Shampoo & Conditioner for Refillable or Bar Options
Why?
Bathroom plastic is sneaky—and shampoo bottles are some of the biggest offenders. They’re usually made from non-recyclable plastics and often get tossed without a second thought.
Do Instead:
Try shampoo and conditioner bars, or refill your bottles at a bulk station. These options reduce waste, last longer, and often skip harsh chemicals—better for you and the reef.
Where to Get It:
• Refill Hawaiʻi and Island Naturals have bulk refill stations • You can find zero waste and natural shampoo/conditioner bars online. Keālia Organics is a favorite of ours and Hawaiian & woman owned!
4. Swap: Conventional Sunscreen for Reef-Safe Options
Why?
Standard sunscreen often contains oxybenzone and octinoxate—two chemicals known to bleach and kill coral reefs, even in small amounts. Not great for Hawaiʻi’s precious marine ecosystems.
Do Instead:
Choose reef-safe, mineral-based sunscreen with non-nano zinc oxide. These protect your skin and the reef without toxic runoff.
Where to Get It:
• Look for Raw Love, Little Hands Hawaiʻi, or Stream2Sea in dive shops and eco stores around the island • Many local hotels and tour companies now sell or even provide them
5. Swap: Paper Towels for Reusable Cloth Towels or “Unpaper” Towels
Why?
Paper towels are a single-use habit that costs trees, water, and landfill space. In Hawaiʻi’s humid climate, they also grow mildew fast and aren’t ideal for composting.
Do Instead:
Keep a stack of cloth napkins or reusable bamboo towels on your counter. They’re just as absorbent and way more stylish.
Where to Get It:
• Thrift stores for cheap cloth napkins
• Etsy or local makers for beautiful printed unpaper towel sets • Bonus: Use old baby clothes or aloha shirts for homemade ones
Aloha ʻĀina in Action
These swaps may seem small—but like the native ʻōhiʻa tree, strong roots grow from simple seeds. By choosing better every day, we care for the ʻāina, honor Hawaiian values, and leave the island better than we found it.
Let’s make this Earth Month a season of regeneration—one sponge, bottle, and bento box at a time.
Want to get inspired by the forest? Join a tour with us at Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary and reconnect with the natural wisdom that makes sustainable living second nature!
Book Here!
Also, we have a unique and special Earth Day Mālama ‘Āina event happening this month in partnership with Clean Rewards! Join us for a full and intentional day giving back to the earth by cleaning up our beaches, and connecting with each other through potluck, yoga, mindful movement, dance, and a sound bath! Add your name to the list here and invite your friends!
