EPA honors Kauai's Anahola Homesteaders Council

A Kauai group is one of 12 that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has recognized nationally for improving environmental quality within the community. The Anahola Homesteaders Council was awarded the first annual Environmental Justice Achievement Award for its “outstanding leadership in improving community environmental quality,” the EPA said in a statement on Oct. 27.

The council is working to improve water quality in the Anahola area rivers and streams and addressing solid waste management, the EPA said. The group also focuses on empowering Native Hawaiians through collaborative partnerships, community involvement and environmental protection in Anahola.

The award recognizes organizations such as academic institutions, state and local governments, and indigenous organizations, for distinguished accomplishments in addressing environmental justice issues.