Embracing Eco Friendly Living on the Big Island Exploring Hawaii’s Most Sustainable Off Grid Communities
Big Island sustainable off-grid communities
Old U.S. Hwy 191
Table of Contents:
- Quick Facts
- Big Island Sustainable Off-Grid Communities
- What is Sustainable Living?
- Benefits of Sustainable Living
- Big Island Off-Grid Communities
- Sustainable Energy on the Big Island
- Building Sustainable Homes on the Big Island
- Growing Your Own Food on the Big Island
- Off-Grid Lifestyle on the Big Island
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Resources & Links
- For Buyers & Sellers
Quick Facts
- Kahalu’u Beach Park has a community-driven, off-grid, solar-powered life-saving and community facility.
- The Puna area has the highest concentration of off-grid homes, especially those using alternative energy and self-sufficiency techniques on the Island.
- Some off-grid communities use ancient Hawaiian ahupua’a (land division) principles for sustainable living.
- Kalani honors the ‘aina (Hawaiian concept for land) through retreat, social and environmental activism (Kokua Hawaii cooperative living, living in alignment with permaculture principles, including locally sourced foods).
- Many off-grid communities are being established across the Big Island as part of the Rural Hawaii Sustainability Development series featuring workshops in renewable energy, permaculture and organic gardening.
- Kapoho has Geothermal powered homes and off grid retreats following the principles of sustainable development.
- Neighborhoods such as Hawaiian Shores, Kehena, and Kapoho around Pahoa, are also beginning to emerge as popular areas for those interested in off-grid lifestyles.
- Hilo town has over 23 small urban sustainable homesteads, such as those with locally sourced renewable energy projects, food grown off the land and more as per a community initiative in partnership of the city.
- Eco Village Pu’U o Hoku in ‘Ainaloa supports an holistic communal lifestyle incorporating bio-dynamic farming principles and permaculture for sustainable agriculture practices and activities sustainable off-grid solar and hydroelectric power energy sources.
- Ka’u Retreat – an off-grid sustainable eco-village that started out as a homestead in year 1996 near the lower areas of Mauna Loa is set on an old macadamia orchard using modern sustainable building practices for small home-living.
Big Island Sustainable Off-Grid Communities
As concerns about climate change and environmental degradation continue to grow, more people are turning to sustainable and off-grid living as a way to reduce their carbon footprint and live in harmony with nature.
The Big Island of Hawaii, with its lush rainforests, towering volcanoes, and vast expanses of open land, is an ideal location for those looking to create a sustainable and off-grid lifestyle.
What is Sustainable Living?
Sustainable living is a lifestyle that seeks to minimize an individual’s or community’s impact on the environment.
This can be achieved through a variety of means, including the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, reducing waste and consumption, and using sustainable building materials.
Benefits of Sustainable Living
There are numerous benefits to living a sustainable and off-grid lifestyle. Some of the most significant benefits include:
- Reduced carbon footprint
- Lower energy costs
- Increased energy independence
- Improved air and water quality
- Enhanced food security
Big Island Off-Grid Communities
The Big Island is home to a number of off-grid communities that showcase sustainable living in action.
Some of the most notable communities include:
| Community | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Pahoa Village | Pahoa | A thriving arts community with a strong focus on sustainability |
| Hawaiian Sanctuary | Puna | A spiritual community that uses permaculture principles to create a sustainable food system |
| Lotus in the Sea, ahupuaa o ka uhi | Naalehu | A sustainable community that uses renewable energy and rainwater harvesting to reduce its environmental impact |
Sustainable Energy on the Big Island
One of the most important aspects of off-grid living is the generation of sustainable energy.
The Big Island is home to a number of solar farms and wind farms that provide renewable energy to the island.
In addition, many off-grid communities on the island use solar power and wind power to generate electricity.
| Benefits | Description |
|---|---|
| Reduced carbon emissions | Sustainable energy sources reduce the island’s reliance on fossil fuels and lower carbon emissions |
| Lower energy costs | Renewable energy sources are becoming increasingly cost-effective |
| Energy independence | Sustainable energy allows off-grid communities to be independent of the grid |
Building Sustainable Homes on the Big Island
Building a sustainable home on the Big Island requires careful planning and consideration.
Some of the most important factors to consider when building a sustainable home include:
- Location
- Materials
- Design
- Renewable energy systems
- Rainwater harvesting
| Material | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Bamboo | Highly renewable, durable, and resistant to pests and decay |
| Recycled materials | Reduces waste, conserves natural resources, and saves money |
| Low-VOC paints | Improves indoor air quality and reduces environmental impact |
| Reclaimed wood | Reduces waste, conserves natural resources, and adds character to a home |
Growing Your Own Food on the Big Island
Growing your own food is a key aspect of sustainable living on the Big Island.
The island’s rich volcanic soil and tropical climate make it an ideal location for a variety of crops, including fruits, vegetables, and tropical flowers.
- Fresh and nutritious produce
- Reduced reliance on imported foods
- Increased energy independence
- Improved food security
- Enhanced connection to the land
Off-Grid Lifestyle on the Big Island
The off-grid lifestyle on the Big Island is all about simplicity and self-sufficiency.
Some of the key aspects of this lifestyle include:
- Growing your own food
- Harvesting rainwater
- Generating renewable energy
- Reducing waste
- Simple living
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is an off-grid community?
A: An off-grid community is a group of homes and buildings that are not connected to the public utility grid. They generate their own electricity and often collect their own water and manage their own waste.
Q: What makes the Big Island a good place for off-grid living?
A: The Big Island’s sunny and windy climate makes it an ideal location for generating renewable energy through solar and wind power. The island’s natural beauty and relaxed pace of life also make it attractive to people looking to live a more sustainable lifestyle.
Q: What are some examples of sustainable off-grid communities on the Big Island?
A: Some examples of sustainable off-grid communities on the Big Island include Ahupuaa O Kahana, a neighborhood in Hilo that uses rainwater collection and solar power, and Pahoa, a town on the south coast that is home to many off-grid homes and sustainable businesses.
Q: What are some benefits of living in an off-grid community?
A: Some benefits of living in an off-grid community include reduced reliance on public utilities, lower energy costs, a sense of community and connection with nature, and the opportunity to live a more sustainable and environmentally friendly lifestyle.
Q: What are some challenges of living in an off-grid community?
A: Some challenges of living in an off-grid community include higher upfront costs for infrastructure and equipment, the potential for inconsistent energy generation, and the need for residents to be actively involved in managing their own energy and resources.
Resources & Links
Hawi Sustainable Living Project
Kalani Eco-Retreat and Sustainable Living Community
Ahupua’a O Na Hanau – Sustainable Living Community
Tin Shack Farm – Sustainable Living Retreat Center
Green Acres Country Farm – Sustainable Living Community
For Buyers & Sellers
As a potential home buyer or seller, the concept of Big Island sustainable off-grid communities can significantly impact your decision-making process.
Here are some key considerations:
Increased Property Values: Off-grid communities that incorporate sustainable features such as solar energy, rainwater harvesting, and organic gardens can command higher property values.
Energy Savings: Living off-grid can significantly reduce your energy costs, which can lead to substantial savings over time.
Limited Infrastructure: Off-grid communities often require more extensive maintenance and repairs, as there are fewer public services and infrastructure available.
Zoning and Regulations: Off-grid communities are subject to zoning regulations and building codes that may vary depending on the location.
Environmental Benefits: Sustainable off-grid communities contribute to the preservation of Hawaii’s natural environment.
Increased Attractiveness to Eco-Conscious Buyers: The Big Island is a popular destination for eco-conscious homebuyers who prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Higher Upfront Costs: Building or moving to an off-grid community can be expensive due to the initial investment in sustainable systems.
Community Benefits: Off-grid communities often foster a sense of cooperation and mutual support.
Tax Incentives: Hawaii offers tax incentives for homeowners who incorporate sustainable features into their properties.
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