Growth & retention of Local Workforce for Biocultural Resources Conservation
JUNE 2024
Created by: Nāhululeihiwakuipapa (Next Gen) Subcommittee of the Hawaiʻi Conservation Alliance
Released and adopted in June 2024, the Hawaiʻi Conservation Alliance's position paper, Growth & Retention of Hawaiʻi’s Local Workforce for Biocultural Resources Conservation, emphasizes the critical need for a well-supported local workforce to ensure the sustainable stewardship of Hawaiʻi's unique ecosystems. It advocates for improved compensation, professional development, and cultural integration to empower conservation professionals and enhance the effectiveness of conservation efforts across the islands.
KEY INSIGHTS
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How can we better communicate the economic and cultural value of Hawai‘i’s natural resources to justify increased funding and support for local conservation efforts?
Hawai‘i’s ecosystems provide immense economic and cultural value—coral reefs alone are estimated at nearly $20 billion, and forests contribute services valued between $10 and $19 billion annually. This underscores the urgent need to invest in stewardship of these irreplaceable natural resources.
Recognizing the tangible economic benefits tied to healthy ecosystems is crucial, but integrating cultural significance into these valuations may foster deeper community support and more sustainable stewardship.
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Despite the high value of conservation work, local conservation professionals often face low wages and limited benefits.
This gap threatens the recruitment and retention of skilled workers essential for protecting Hawai‘i’s unique environment.
What innovative strategies could organizations adopt to improve compensation and benefits for conservation workers without compromising project funding?
Addressing compensation challenges is not just about fairness—it’s about ensuring continuity and expertise in conservation work, which directly impacts Hawai‘i’s environmental resilience.
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Incorporating traditional Hawaiian knowledge and cultural practices into conservation efforts is vital. This approach ensures stewardship that is culturally relevant and deeply connected to local communities.
In what ways can conservation programs more authentically incorporate traditional Hawaiian knowledge and practices into their daily operations?
Bridging Western science with indigenous wisdom offers a holistic approach to environmental management that respects both ecological and cultural dimensions, leading to more meaningful outcomes.
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The position paper proposes actionable strategies such as increasing compensation, providing professional development, and creating supportive work environments to strengthen Hawai‘i’s conservation workforce.
What role can community stakeholders and policymakers play in implementing the recommended workforce improvements for conservation professionals?
A collaborative effort involving local communities, government agencies, and nonprofits is essential to build a resilient, skilled, and culturally grounded conservation workforce.
