On April 19, 2011, EcoEffect radio (KGU-AM 760) featured students from BYU–Hawaii on its daily sustainability show. The show, “Charlene on Green” is hosted by Charlene Brown, a graduate from BYU (Provo), and focuses on household and organizational efforts to move toward a more sustainable community. BYU–Hawaii students Chad Jansrikesorn, Lani Harris, Molly Alofipo, and Theresa Holmes discussed various campus initiatives they have been involved in through employment and academics.
The first topic covered was the aquaponics, a symbiotic combination of hydroponics and aquaculture. The base of the aquaponics system is essentially a fish tank where the water, including the waste from the fish, is pumped to plants where the water is filtered by the plants and then pumped back to the fish tank. The plants, fertilized by the fish, grow rapidly and can be ready for harvesting within three weeks of planting. The fish may also be harvested when they are full grown, and their eggs replenish the tank.
The students also discussed vermicomposting, or worm farming with Charlene. BYU–Hawaii Food Services currently uses worms to decompose leftover vegetables or garden clippings, and then mixes the organic compost with soil to grow healthier plants. The worm casting is also used to make worm tea, used to water the plants with healthy bacteria, similar to vitamin water for plants.
The final topic was the biodiesel soap that the Food Services department has developed, in collaboration with the biochemistry department and Hawaii Reserves, Inc. The soap is created from the byproduct of a waste product, a process of re-recycling. The soap is being used as hand soap in the cafeteria and dormitories, as laundry soap, and is sold at the campus farmers market.
David Keala, director of BYU–Hawaii Food Services, commented, “The student leaders are a tremendous force for good in our department and on campus. They have obtained a passion in their life that will help them create positive change in those with whom they associate. Appearing on EcoEffect was a highlight in their collegiate career, and they have earned it.”
Click here to view highlights from the discussion or to hear the broadcast.