University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa researchers are exploring the potential of Hawaiʻi-grown eucalyptus as a sustainable source of lumber for construction. The project aims to reduce the state's reliance on imported building materials and promote healthier forests. The research received a grant to establish engineering standards for eucalyptus use in structural applications. If successful, this initiative could benefit Hawaiʻi's forestry and wood products industries, while also reducing shipping costs, carbon emissions, and wildfire risks associated with importing lumber.
Tag: Hawaiʻi
-
Environmental News Network – Fungi Found on Coconut Husks Can Decompose Plastic and Sunscreen
Vera Wang, a senior at Kaiser High School, won multiple awards at the 2026 Hawaiʻi State Science & Engineering Fair for her research on fungi that can degrade plastic and sunscreen. Conducted in Anthony Amend's lab at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, Wang's success was attributed to her vision and the support of the public school system. Her research has given optimism about the future of science in Hawaiʻi, and she has qualified for the International Science & Engineering Fair in Phoenix, Arizona. This breakthrough in using fungi for plastic degradation could be a significant step towards sustainable solutions for plastic waste.
https://www.enn.com/articles/78003-fungi-found-on-coconut-husks-can-decompose-plastic-and-sunscreen
-
Communicating Carbon Removal in a Fractured Media Landscape
Despite challenges in climate communication and lack of awareness about carbon removal, there is bipartisan support for carbon removal policies once understood. The climate movement must shift messaging from fear to hope, address concerns about environmental justice, and invest in local storytellers for effective action. Carbon180 is focusing on community-based initiatives in Alaska, Hawaiʻi, and Puerto Rico, emphasizing engagement with local communities for responsible deployment. Media coverage of climate change is declining, but there is growing interest in carbon removal among voters. The importance of climate policy and the need for urgency, hope, and transparency in climate solutions are key issues for 2025.
https://carbon180.org/blog/communicating-carbon-removal-in-a-fractured-media-landscape/