Mahi Pono Main Office - Puunene, Hawaii

Brandon C.

⭐ 1/5 - Environmental Harm from Mahi Pono’s Practices

This review is to highlight the negative environmental impact Mahi Pono is having on Maui. While the company promotes itself as a contributor to sustainable farming and food security, the reality of its operations tells a different story.

The Issues

Dust Pollution:
Mahi Pono’s agricultural practices, particularly on large, barren tracts of land, have contributed to severe dust storms in Central Maui. These storms are not just an inconvenience—they harm air quality, obscure the island’s natural beauty, and pose health risks to residents and visitors. In July 2023, the company was fined by the Hawaii Department of Health for failing to control “fugitive dust,” but the problem persists.

Erosion and Land Mismanagement:
The land Mahi Pono oversees was once lush and diverse, but their large-scale, profit-driven practices have left much of it exposed to erosion and environmental degradation. This is far from the sustainable farming model they claim to uphold.

Impact on Maui’s Image:
Maui is known for its pristine beauty, but dust storms caused by irresponsible land management are turning parts of the island into an eyesore. For an island that relies heavily on tourism, this damage could have long-term repercussions for its economy.

Empty Promises of Sustainability:
While Mahi Pono talks about sustainable farming, their actions speak otherwise. Their focus on monoculture and insufficient measures to protect the land are harming the community and the environment.

The Bigger Picture

We, the people, hold the power, and it’s time we hold these big companies accountable. Corporate greed is real, and companies like Mahi Pono are prioritizing profits over the health of the land and the well-being of Maui’s residents. As stewards of this island, it’s our responsibility to demand transparency and sustainable practices from businesses that benefit from our community and resources.

Final Thought

Mahi Pono has an opportunity to do better—by truly adopting sustainable practices, planting cover crops, and prioritizing land stewardship. As a company with such a significant presence on Maui, they have a responsibility to the land and the people who live here. Until meaningful changes are made, their current practices are doing more harm than good.

Let’s stand together and ensure companies like Mahi Pono are held to the highest standard. Maui deserves better.

Chalette H.

Supports community farming. Giving locals an opportunity to farm 2 acres of land. I appreciate Mahi Pono reaching out to our community. Mahalo!

Pirate2002Admiral

I really happy the Mahi Pono bought all the old sugar cane land because now it's starting to look green again

George A.

Love the work they're doing to employ locals and provide Maui with locally grown produce. Great watermelon 🍉!

Randan V.

Brad T.

Joan P.

Don A.