We live in a green world! Now, more than ever, people are aware of both their impact on their surroundings and what they can do to make that impact more beneficial – and boy are we seals grateful! Fortunately, awareness of the environment is not something you have to check at the door when you leave on vacation – especially in Kauai. Part of enjoying the scenery is knowing that you are contributing to its perpetuation. How can you and your fellow travellers accomplish this? That’s why I’m here – a loyal Poipu Beach seal at your service!
The first thing you’ll want to do is take a good look at your accommodations. Is the resort or hotel you’ve chosen “green”? Do they have recycling on the premises? Take the Villas at Poipu Kai for example: not only does the resort offer recycling services, it also uses biodegradable cleaning products and features low-stream shower and sink fixtures. What’s more – the Villas offers laundry facilities (equipped with biodegradable soap) in each unit so that tenants can wash sheets when necessary instead of having them cleaned daily. Many resorts will have this kind of information on their website or by request (see the Villas’ Green Initiative Page for example). If the resort at which you are staying does not offer recycling, lookup the address to the closest recycling center and take your items there.
There is much within your control to contribute to the green movement: pack a canvas bag; when you leave your accommodations for the day, turn off the air conditioning; opt to wash your towels every 2-3 days instead of on a daily basis. Make “going green” fun but taking your family to the local farmer’s market! Sample the local fruits, vegetables, spices, cheeses, and much more – there’s no better way to enjoy our Kauaian cuisine…just be sure to bring some by for me on your way home. (Visit the Farmer’s Market website for more info)
Most of all, encourage the resort you are visiting to further develop their efforts to implement environmentally sound practices. If you appreciate the fact that the Villas at Poipu Kai has solar-powered lamps and torches to light your way as your walk through the resort, say so! They’ll be happy to know their efforts are being noticed. So GO GREEN! – my friends in the ocean will be satisfied knowing our island is in good hands.