Hawaii's Food Security Needs More Than Infrastructure, Researcher Says

A new policy article from a University of Hawaii at Manoa researcher argues that improving Hawaii's food security requires more than just building warehouses and increasing crop production. While the state currently imports about 90% of its food, the researcher says trust and connections between people are just as important as physical infrastructure. In Hawaii, discussions about food security often focus on cold storage, warehouses, and doubling local crop output. However, the researcher points out that these efforts, while essential, are incomplete without strengthening social ties and trust within communities. Building relationships between farmers, businesses, and consumers can help create a more resilient food system. The article stresses that relying solely on physical infrastructure ignores the human element. Trust allows for better cooperation and sharing of resources, especially during emergencies. Without it, even the best facilities may not ensure food reaches those in need. Hawaii's geographical isolation makes it vulnerable to supply chain disruptions. The researcher suggests that policymakers should invest in both infrastructure and community-building initiatives. By combining these approaches, the state can work toward reducing its dependence on imports and improving long-term food security. The study is part of ongoing efforts to understand how Hawaii can become more self-sufficient in food production while also building a stronger, more connected local economy.