Six on Maui Earn Hawaii’s First-Ever “Green” Certification

By Wendy Osher

Photo Credit: Atlantis Submarines.

Six Maui companies were honored with the state’s first-ever Green Certification Award issued by the Hawai’i Ecotourism Association (HEA).

The award recognized commercial tour operators for their responsible use of natural and cultural resources and conservation sustainability practices.

It was developed to help educate and raise awareness among visitors and tour companies alike, of green practices in one of Hawaii’s leading industries.

The goal, HEA officials say, is to encourage more “green” tourism statewide.

Across the state, there were 14 companies honored in the inaugural year of the program.

Maui’s “Gold” winners include Atlantis Adventures and Trilogy Excursions. Silver winners were Hawaiian Paddle Sports, Hike Maui, Pacific Islands Institute and Pacific Whale Foundation.

In addition, the HEA honored veteran journalist and Hawai’i native Jocelyn Fujii for decades of storytelling featuring Hawaii’s people, culture, food environment and island lifestyle.

Other companies recognized include: Volcano Discovery, Jack’s Diving Locker, Kayak Kauai, Kualoa Ranch, Wild Side Specialty Tours, Annette’s Adventures, Bike Hawaii, and Hawaii Forest & Trail.