The Hawai’i DLNR introduces “Mauka to Makai,” a podcast that explores conservation issues from mountains to the sea and fosters community engagement in environmental stewardship.
“Mauka to Makai” is a new podcast of the Hawai’i Department of Land and Natural Resources, DLNR, which it says aims to shed much-needed light on the difficulties facing conservation in the Hawaiian Islands. The podcast centers on how Hawaii’s varied ecosystems are intertwined by examining the mountain areas from mauka to makai, or from land to sea. The podcast premiered on January 8, 2025.
In-depth conversations are featured in every episode with experts, civic leaders, and committed legislators on safeguarding the natural and cultural treasure of the state. Topics on watershed management, invasive species, marine protection, and the value of traditional ecological knowledge of Hawaiian culture are tackled.
DLNR Chair Dawn Chang expressed her eagerness over the initiative. She said, “Through ‘Mauka to Makai,’ we will try to get people to be a part of a meaningful discussion in terms of how we should steward our islands. We’ll point out both the problems and the successes as we seek collective action for sustainable conservation.”
The podcast also brings attention to community-led initiatives, such as the recent DLNR listening sessions on Moloka’i. Listening sessions have helped shine light on issues like sedimentation affecting coral reefs and invasive species destroying native ecosystems.
“Mauka to Makai” is available for streaming on major platforms, including Apple Podcasts and Hawai‘i Public Radio, making it accessible to a broad audience interested in the preservation of Hawai‘i’s unique environment.
In addition to contributing criticism and ideas for future episodes, listeners are urged to subscribe and join the discussion. This program demonstrates DLNR’s dedication to openness, instruction, and community involvement in tackling the environmental issues that Hawai‘i is currently experiencing.
