Hawaii decides how to spend ‘green fees’ to protect nature, tourism

Tourism is Hawaii’s central economic driver, accounting for about a quarter of its economy. PHOTO: REUTERS

By Carey L. Biron for Context

[WASHINGTON] When Kawika Riley surveys the beaches and forested hills of the Hawaiian islands, his eyes are drawn to a dangerous interloper: flammable invasive grasses.

Two years ago, such grasses fed devastating wildfires that tore through the island of Maui, killing more than 100 people and causing US$5.5 billion in damage.

“What you’re seeing when you see those grasses grow is literally your risk and vulnerability increase,” said Riley, a coalition leader with environmental group Care for ‘Aina Now.

But managing the environment, such as controlling invasive grass growth, is expensive.

Click here to read the full story published on Aug. 6 by Context