Home / Environment / Kauai Bans Foam Bodyboards to Protect Marine Life
Kauai Bans Foam Bodyboards to Protect Marine Life
13 Dec
Summary
- Kauai banned disposable foam bodyboards starting December 10th.
- Fines range from $100 to $500 for selling or renting banned boards.
- This ban aims to protect marine animals and reduce beach litter.
Effective one year from December 10th, Kauai will prohibit the sale, rental, and distribution of disposable bodyboards made from polystyrene foam. Mayor Derek Kawakami signed the bill into law, citing the significant environmental harm caused by these easily breakable boards, which contribute to litter and pose ingestion risks to marine animals and native birds.
This legislation targets the popular, inexpensive foam boards often used by short-term visitors. Violators face penalties escalating from $100 for a first offense to $500 for subsequent violations within the same year. The ban does not extend to bodyboards made from more durable materials, ensuring recreational options remain available.
Kauai's action follows similar environmental initiatives in Hawaii, including Maui's 2022 ban on foam bodyboards and a statewide prohibition on certain sunscreens harmful to coral reefs enacted in 2018. These measures reflect a growing commitment to environmental protection across the islands.
