From 5-gallon bucket sifters that broke mid-cleanup to a squeaky, unsafe barrel, Hele Mua’s journey to the Huli Sifter 2.0 has been full of trial, error, and innovation. Funded by our first grant from The Pollination Project and built in part with recycled ocean plastic from Kaua‘i, this new microplastic removal tool is safer, smoother, and more sustainable than ever.

From January to July, Hele Mua’s operations team worked alongside volunteers, schools, businesses, and community partners to protect Hawai‘i’s shorelines. In this mid-year recap, we highlight our cleanups, cultural education activities, and partnerships that brought people together to remove marine debris, tackle microplastic pollution, and inspire sustainable action across O‘ahu.

Mahalo to the Ecolab volunteers who brought their passion and positive energy to our 9/21 World Cleanup Day event at Hunananiho Beach Park! Together, we removed 96 pounds of trash and 141 grams of microplastics, making a big impact for our ʻāina.

Volunteers from Coconut and Shoreline Hotels joined Hele Mua on April 27th for a rewarding cleanup along Hawaii’s coastline. Together, we removed 230 pounds of trash and 310 grams of microplastics while fostering collaboration between local communities and the hospitality industry. Mahalo to everyone who participated in making a positive impact on our ʻāina!