Welcome to
the Mala Laʻau Project,
an initiative that responds to climate equity and environmental justice issues while promoting community health and sustainability. Our project designs, plants, and cares for small, ecologically sustainable, and immersive multifunctional forest systems called Mala Laʻau.
Our innovative and culturally sensitive approach to addressing food insecurity and environmental health disparities is critical in supporting underserved communities, volunteers, and students. Our project aims to benefit all of Kauaʻi by creating forest gardens near community hubs, providing easy access to resources, and encouraging resource sharing.
Join us in creating a greener, healthier, and more equitable Kauaʻi. The Mala Laʻau project promotes community and ecosystem resilience by fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the natural world. Whether you want to volunteer, learn more about our project, or simply support our cause, we welcome you to participate in our movement toward biocultural diversity, sustainability, and positive health outcomes for all.
growing community
growing food
growing health
growing resilience
growing people
growing ecosystems
Mala Laʻau supports food security and provides low-barrier resource-sharing opportunities while honoring Hawaiian culture. By prioritizing planting in communities with limited access to green spaces, we aim to offer individuals well-documented physical and mental health benefits.
We understand the intersecting challenges low-income families face on Kauai, including food insecurity, environmental health disparities, and limited access to transportation and green spaces. By planting diverse native plant communities, we aim to develop critical habitats, contribute to biocultural diversity, and mitigate the effects of climate change.
At the Mala Laʻau Project, we believe that promoting sustainability is critical to creating a greener, healthier, and more equitable Kauaʻi. Our long-lived and accessible food trees contribute to community food security for decades while promoting positive health outcomes for all.
