What is 'Āina?

'Āina (eye-nah) : noun

The land that feeds us.

'Āina, originated and is deeply rooted within the Hawaiian language and culture. The direct translation is, the land that feeds us, but there is a much deeper and spiritual meaning of the word. 'Āina means to honor what provides for us, the land, by protecting and giving back to it. 

'Āina was founded with a deep understanding that everything in this world is interconnected. We believe that by treating the Earth with respect and care, it will continue to provide us with the resources we need to thrive. By recognizing the importance of our role as stewards of the earth, we can take steps to promote sustainability and ensure a healthy future for generations to come.

At ‘Āina you will find products that have been mindfully and carefully selected from companies who’s mission aligns with the goal of supporting, giving back to and preserving mother earth. The experience at the refill bar is fun and rewarding, kind of like a big DIY bar. Refillable items include, but are not limited to: shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, hand soap, laundry detergent, and home cleaning products. The process is simple- bring your own container or purchase one from us, tare your container at the weighing station, refill on the desired product, then the container is re weighed and you’re ready to check out. All of the refill bar’s products contain no harmful ingredients and are scent free which adds an extra bonus because, you will be able to customize your refillable’s with essential oils. When you shop at ‘Āina you feel good because you are doing good - for you, your home, and the planet. 

What is zero waste?

Zero waste is a shift in perception and can easily be implemented by making small adjustments in your daily routine. The goal of zero waste is simple- reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill. Zero waste goes beyond recycling, it emphasizes sustainability by considering the entire life-cycle of products, processes, and systems. Most importantly, zero waste influences mindful consumption, ultimately leading to less trash in our oceans, waterways and lands. 

Where does the love and passion for zero waste come from?

My passion for zero waste starts in the sea. Through the sport of surfing, the ocean became my refuge and playground. I have traveled all over the world seeking the perfect wave. It is through my travels where I noticed one unfortunate commonality between all the beautiful places I so eagerly sought out, trash. At first glance arriving to a white sand turquoise oasis can seem picture perfect but, just look down and more times than not you will see trash lining the beaches or smaller pieces of plastic scattering the shoreline mimicking seashells. Unfortunately, on many occasions while paddling out to that perfect wave, I have been accompanied by single use plastics like; water bottles, candy wrappers, toothbrushes, straws and so much more. After witnessing first hand the damaging effects the “out of sight out of mind” mindset around our trash has, I decided to hold myself accountable.

Why do you think its important for businesses/individuals to try to adopt a more sustainable/zero waste ideology

Within zero waste and sustainability there are many action steps we can take on an individualistic level but, to make an impact it takes more than one person. We only have one earth and we must do our best to protect it, just like it protects and provides for us. Living a zero waste lifestyle is not about being perfect, it’s about living with awareness and responsibility.