Hawaiian Attitudes Toward Geothermal Development

Abstract

The results of a survey of the attitudes of a Hawaiian Community toward geothermal development are described. The survey was conducted by a grassroots community organization, and high response rate (85%) provides a good representation of community sentiment. The findings in general suggest a substantial polarization of attitudes toward the possible effects of geothermal development and toward potential uses of the geothermal resource. There is evidence of a balancing of perceived economic advantages of development against a long list of perceived negative effects on the physical, social and cultural characteristics of the community. Implications of the findings for assessing the social and cultural impact on geothermal development on the Puna Hawaiian Community are discussed.