Hawaiian Islands: A Model for Global Sustainability - Closing Keynote

Explore the unique ecological and cultural landscape of the Hawaiian Islands in this captivating closing keynote address by Samuel M. ʻOhukaniʻōhiʻa Gon III. Delve into the remarkable biodiversity and ecological diversity of the archipelago, from its diverse lifezones to its evolutionary marvels. Discover how native Hawaiians developed a sustainable socioecological system over a millennium, achieving high population densities while maintaining a minimal ecological footprint. Examine the intersection of geospatial modeling, archaeological data, phytoecological modeling, and pre-contact oral traditions to understand this remarkable achievement. Consider the valuable lessons and potential global models that can be derived from Hawaii's 1000-year history of sustainable island living. Reflect on how these insights might inform solutions to current global sustainability challenges and ecosystem degradation. Learn from Sam ʻOhukaniʻōhiʻa Gon III, a distinguished conservation biologist, cultural advisor, and traditionally trained kahuna, as he bridges scientific expertise with indigenous knowledge to address critical conservation issues in Hawaii and beyond.