|
|
AT
HOME
-
Dispose of
your rubbish properly. Don’t leave unwanted lines or
nets in the water or on the beach. Any kind of litter pollutes
the water and can harm the reef and the fish.
-
Take only the
fish you will eat that day. Leave tomorrow’s catch in
the water. Fishing pressure is one of the most serious threats
to Hawaii’s coral reef ecosystem and our island lifestyle.
-
Never release
aquarium or non-native plants or animals into Hawaii’s
waters. They can become vicious predators and/or carry disease
that can kill Hawaii’s reefs and fish.
-
Stay off the
reef when swimming, snorkeling and diving. One touch can harm
it. More can kill it.
-
Anchoring on
the reef can kill it! Look for sandy bottom or use moorings
if available.
-
Leave marine
life alone. Enjoy nature but don't touch or chase animals
as many are protected by law.
- For the last 13 years, cigarette
filters were the number one item collected at beach cleanups.
Use an ash can, not the sand.
-
Support reef-friendly
businesses. Ask the fishing, boating, hotel, aquarium, dive
or snorkeling operators how they protect the reef. Be sure
they care for the living reef ecosystem.
-
Be an informed
consumer. Ask how the fish and coral were collected, and if
the organization responsible is part of a coral reef ecosystem
management effort.
-
Help reduce
pollution by leaving your car at home. Walk, bike or ride
the bus.
-
Volunteer for
or organize reef and beach cleanups and monitoring programs.
-
Encourage others
to share your concern. Teach them how to protect the reef.
-
Help enforce
the rules. Help others understand the things they should and
should not do.
-
Get involved!
Write, email or call your legislators to encourage legislation
that protects Hawaii’s coral reef ecosystem. Discourage
them from legislation or rules that can harm the reef.
-
Support the
creation and maintenance of marine parks and marine protected
areas (MPAs).
|
|
|
