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 Zero Waste Hawaiʻi Island is excited to launch the Aloha ʻĀina ("love of land") program, focused on cultivating a culture of source reduction (i.e., waste prevention) in East Hawaiʻi schools. This program, supported with funding by a two-year grant (pending approval of funding for the second year), is set to help schools transition from disposable to reusable foodware in cafeteria meal programs while incorporating an educational component that highlights the importance of a local food economy in waste reduction.

The overuse of disposable foodware contributes to environmental pollution and exposes students to harmful chemicals. The Aloha ʻĀina program aims to challenge this norm by raising awareness of these risks and encouraging a shift toward waste prevention practices. By integrating indigenous knowledge and traditional land stewardship principles, the program introduces a culturally grounded approach to waste prevention that strengthens our connection to the land.

To implement this initiative effectively, the program includes school waste audits to assess waste generation, site visits to evaluate cafeteria operations, and data collection on disposable foodware usage. These findings will guide the development of an Implementation Plan for Reusable Foodware, a strategic roadmap detailing costs, environmental benefits, and logistics for transitioning East Hawaiʻi schools to reuse for cafeteria meal programs.

To support long-term change, Source Reduction and Educational Toolkits will be provided to teachers and custodial staff. These toolkits will offer guidance on minimizing single-use foodware, selecting safer cleaning products, and incorporating Aloha ʻĀina education into school curricula. Additionally, students and families will engage in hands-on workshops designed to deepen their relationship with local food systems, fostering enthusiasm for environmental stewardship.

Interactive school assemblies and agricultural workshops will further enrich student learning by connecting them with local farmers and traditional Hawaiian land stewardship practices. Through these experiences, students will gain a deeper understanding of environmental responsibility and the vital role they play in protecting Hawaiʻi’s natural resources.

By aligning environmental responsibility with indigenous values and local agriculture, the Aloha ʻĀina program aims to cultivate a lasting culture of environmental responsibility. As this initiative unfolds, we look forward to working together to create a future where schools lead the way in mālama ʻāina—caring for our beloved land. Stay tuned for updates as we embark on this transformative journey toward a zero-waste future in Hawaiʻi's schools!

Are you a student, teacher, or parent? We need champions of reuse to help connect us with schools and drive this movement forward! If you’re passionate about reducing waste and promoting sustainability in East Hawaiʻi schools, reach out to us @ zwhi@zerowastehi.org to get involved and visit https://www.zerowastehi.org/alohaaina to learn more. 

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