Hawaii green strategies change as recession hits home
The recession has taken its toll on the move by Hawaii companies to go “green.” Today, going green is all about saving money, not necessarily contributing to sustainability. In contrast to the local and national green rush of 2007 that saw new interest in pricey roof-top photovoltaic systems and LEED certification, the new green reality [...]
70 percent from renewables by 2030
Hawaii’s largest utility signed onto plans for a future filled with renewable energy, electric cars and stable power supplies as the islands strive to become energy independent. Hawaiian Electric Co. and Gov. Linda Lingle inked an agreement earlier this month to move the state away from dependence on fossil fuels for electricity and ground transportation. [...]
Awards honor those who go green
Mattson Davis, chief executive officer of Kona Brewing Company, was honored recently for the company’s efforts to develop an environmentally friendly business in Hawaii. David shared the story of his company’s sustainable success at the second annual "Who’s Keeping Hawaii Green" awards ceremony last month on Oahu. More than a dozen other businesses and individuals [...]
Hawaii credit union gives ‘green’ discounts
Aloha Pacific Credit Union has become the first financial institution in Hawaii to introduced a loan program to help drivers become sustainable.
More schools add eco-friendly elements
WASHINGTON — Waterless urinals. Geothermal cooling systems. Photovoltaic solar panels. The space shuttle? Try your child’s school. Classrooms are slowly going green, prodded by rising energy bills, public health concerns and a general desire to adopt eco-friendly principles. Green schools cost a little more to build — generally 1 percent to 2 percent extra — [...]
Hawaii firms consider 4-day work week
Hawaii employers and state government are looking at four-day work weeks as a way to cut costs, save energy and get their workers off the roads one day a week. Some are looking at the switch as a “green” initiative while others are seeing a way to boost employee productivity and morale. For workers, it’s [...]
Fireman’s Fund offers ‘green’ policy in Hawaii
Hawaii is among 26 states where Fireman’s Fund Insurance Co. will offer "green" insurance for homeowners, allowing policy holders to rebuild homes to green standards should their residence be completely destroyed.
