Preventing Hawaii's Soil And Water Pollution: Strategies And Solutions

Hawaii's water and soil are vulnerable to pollution from a range of sources, including agriculture, urbanisation, and improper waste disposal. The impact of these activities is felt in the ocean, with toxic algal blooms, contaminated water bodies, and the degradation of coral reef ecosystems. To prevent soil and water pollution in Hawaii, individuals, communities, and farmers must adopt sustainable practices. This includes proper waste disposal, maintaining septic systems, reducing erosion, and using organic alternatives to chemical fertilisers and pesticides.

How to Prevent Soil and Water Pollution in Hawaii

Dispose of chemicals and waste properly

To prevent soil and water pollution in Hawaii, it is crucial to dispose of chemicals and waste properly. Here are some specific actions that can be taken:

Firstly, it is essential to properly manage animal waste. This includes implementing comprehensive nutrient management plans to ensure that animal waste does not contaminate nearby water bodies or aquifers. Working with organizations like the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) can provide access to technical advice and grants to support sustainable practices.

Secondly, farmers should adopt sustainable farming practices to minimize the use of chemicals and reduce polluted runoff. This includes conducting soil tests before applying fertilizers to determine the specific needs of the soil and using organic fertilizers sparingly, as excessive or improper use can lead to nutrient pollution in water bodies. Similarly, pesticides should be used properly and disposed of correctly to prevent them from entering Hawaii's waterways.

Additionally, residents and businesses should properly dispose of trash, cleaners, poisons, and other chemicals at designated recycling or disposal centers. These substances should never be poured down storm drains, as they can contaminate oceans, streams, and groundwater. To further reduce pollution, individuals can use biodegradable, non-toxic, recycled, and recyclable products whenever possible, and opt for low- or no-phosphate detergents.

Moreover, used oil and other automotive fluids should be properly disposed of to prevent them from contaminating the environment. Regularly maintaining vehicles and machinery can help identify leaks and ensure that these fluids are handled responsibly.

By following these measures and disposing of chemicals and waste properly, individuals, farmers, and businesses can play a crucial role in preventing soil and water pollution in Hawaii, protecting the environment, and preserving the quality of Hawaii's precious water resources.

Reduce soil erosion

Soil erosion in Hawaii is a serious problem due to intense rainstorms, steep slopes, and high volumes of runoff. While some level of soil erosion occurs naturally, accelerated soil erosion from development and agricultural activities can degrade the landscape and smother coral reefs.

Farmers play a crucial role in preventing soil erosion and protecting Hawaii's water resources. By adopting sustainable farming practices, farmers can reduce the amount of polluted runoff from their farms. This includes implementing nutrient and pest management strategies, as well as conservation cover and mulching practices, to reduce the quantity of farm runoff. Farmers should also conserve water resources by improving on-farm water retention and increasing soil moisture.

One effective method to reduce soil erosion is through the use of Vetiver grass (*Chrysopogon zizanioides*). Native to India, Vetiver has been used in many tropical countries and has been shown to be a simple and economical way to conserve soil. The grass slows the velocity of water, traps sediment, filters out nutrients, and stabilizes steep slopes. With its dense web of roots, Vetiver binds the soil and penetrates vertically up to 15 feet. Its deep root system makes it highly drought-tolerant and an excellent tool for managing water and pollutant movement in the soil. Above ground, Vetiver has stiff and erect stems that can withstand water flows or depths of up to one foot. Additionally, Vetiver is resistant to pests, diseases, fire, and moderate grazing pressure.

The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Hawaii provides conservation grants and technical advice to private landowners. They work towards protecting, enhancing, and preserving soil, water, air, plants, and animals using scientific expertise. One success story is that of Wei Chong Ho, an Oahu farmer who, through an NRCS partnership, was able to reduce his use of chemicals on his farm.

Improve farming practices

Improving farming practices is essential to preventing soil and water pollution in Hawaii. Here are some ways to do this:

Firstly, farmers should adopt practices that prevent polluted runoff from entering nearby water bodies. This includes implementing nutrient and pest management strategies, as well as conservation cover and mulching. Nutrient management involves applying the right amount of nutrients (fertilizer and manure) at the right time of year, with the right method and placement. For example, a soil test should be conducted before applying fertilizers to determine if they are needed and, if so, which type should be used. Fertilizers should be used sparingly and applied when rain is not in the immediate forecast to prevent fertilizer runoff, which can contribute to toxic algal blooms in the ocean.

Farmers should also consider using organic fertilizers, which release nutrients more slowly, and reduce the use of pesticides and herbicides, ensuring proper use and disposal to keep these chemicals out of waterways. Implementing conservation tillage by reducing the frequency and intensity of tilling can improve soil health, reduce erosion, and decrease the chance of nutrients reaching waterways.

Another way to improve farming practices is by managing livestock access to streams. Farmers can install fences along water bodies to block animal access, helping to restore stream banks and prevent excess nutrients from entering the water. Proper waste management is also crucial, ensuring appropriate storage, processing, and disposal of manure and other waste products, as well as recycling and reusing wherever possible.

Additionally, farmers can plant cover crops or perennial species to ensure year-round ground cover, preventing soil erosion and reducing nutrient loss into waterways. Planting trees, shrubs, and grasses along field edges, especially those bordering water bodies, can create a natural buffer that absorbs or filters out nutrients before they reach the water.

By adopting these improved farming practices, farmers in Hawaii can play a crucial role in protecting the state's precious soil and water resources.

Maintain septic systems

Maintaining septic systems is crucial to preventing soil and water pollution in Hawaii. Improperly maintained septic systems can cause sewage-containing bacteria, nitrogen, and phosphorus to enter nearby water bodies or aquifers. Here are some essential tips to properly maintain your septic system:

• Regularly inspect and pump your septic tank: It is important to have your septic tank inspected regularly by a professional. They will check for any leaks, clogs, or other issues and ensure that it is functioning properly. Depending on the usage and the number of people in your household, you may need to pump your septic tank every two to three years.
• Practice water conservation: Reducing water usage is crucial in minimizing the amount of sewage that enters your septic tank. This will help to prevent overloading the system and extend the time between pumpings. Fix any leaking faucets or toilets, and practice water-saving techniques, such as taking shorter showers and running full loads of laundry and dishes.
• Properly dispose of waste: Never flush anything other than human waste and toilet paper down your toilets. Grease, oils, chemicals, and other hazardous materials should never be poured down the drain. These substances can cause clogs and damage to your septic system. Always dispose of them at a designated hazardous waste disposal facility.
• Maintain your drain field: The drain field, also known as the leach field, is an essential component of your septic system. Ensure that it is not driven or parked on to avoid damaging the pipes. Keep the area well-maintained by mowing the grass and ensuring that the soil is slightly mounded to promote proper drainage.
• Be mindful of your landscaping: Avoid planting trees or large shrubs too close to your septic tank and drain field. The roots of these plants can infiltrate and damage the pipes, causing leaks and backups. Opt for shallow-rooted plants or maintain a clear area around your septic system.

By following these maintenance tips, you can help ensure that your septic system functions properly, preventing sewage and pollutants from contaminating Hawaii's precious soil and water resources.

Avoid pouring toxins down drains

Preventing soil and water pollution in Hawaii is crucial to protecting the state's unique natural environment and the health and safety of its residents. One important way to contribute to this effort is by avoiding pouring toxins down drains, as this can contaminate water sources and harm the environment and local wildlife. Here are some specific ways to avoid pouring toxins down the drain:

Dispose of Chemicals Properly

Hazardous chemicals, such as cleaning products, paints, and automotive fluids, should never be poured down the drain. These products often contain harmful chemicals, such as antibacterial agents, phosphates, and heavy metals, that can contaminate water sources and endanger human health. Instead, dispose of these products at designated recycling or disposal centres. For example, used motor oil can be taken to a hazardous waste facility, and old paint can often be safely disposed of at local waste facilities.

Properly Manage Medication Disposal

Flushing unused or expired medication down the drain or toilet can leak chemicals into drinking water and the environment. Always dispose of unwanted medication responsibly by taking it to a local pharmacy or police department, which will have access to medical waste disposal units. Alternatively, mix the medication with something unpalatable, like coffee grounds sealed in a plastic bag, and throw it in the trash.

Avoid Pouring Grease and Oil-Based Products

Grease, cooking oil, salad dressings, butter, mayonnaise, and other oil-based products should not be poured down the drain. These substances can stick to the inside of pipes, causing clogs over time. Instead, collect and dispose of these materials in the trash or a designated grease receptacle.

Be Mindful of Food Waste

While it may be tempting to rinse large amounts of food waste down the drain, certain foods can expand when mixed with water, leading to blockages. Pasta, rice, and flour-based products are particularly prone to causing clogs. Instead, scrape food waste into the trash or compost it whenever possible.

Choose Biodegradable and Eco-Friendly Products

Whenever possible, opt for biodegradable, non-toxic, and eco-friendly cleaning and personal care products. These products are designed to minimise their impact on the environment and are less likely to contain harmful chemicals that can contaminate water sources.

By following these guidelines and being mindful of what goes down the drain, individuals can play a crucial role in preventing soil and water pollution in Hawaii, protecting the state's precious natural resources for future generations.

Frequently asked questions