Integrated Communications

Ala Wai Canal Watershed Improvement Project

Challenge:

Several years ago, CommPac oversaw the communications effort for the Ala Wai Canal Watershed Improvement Project, establishing partnerships between the community, businesses and government to ensure the cleanup of this extremely polluted canal adjacent to Waikīkī, the epicenter of the visitor industry on O‘ahu. The greatest challenge was the sheer number of stakeholders that CommPac had to turn into project partners. These included government officials, business leaders and representatives of one of the country’s most densely populated watersheds.

Solution:

CommPac began a dialogue with area government officials, businesses and the general public, which led to the creation of a Community Advisory Council, chaired by CommPac’s Christina Kemmer. The Council encouraged each sub-community to take responsibility for two or three cleaning projects. CommPac then worked closely with the media to inform the public about these programs and encourage additional community members to participate.

Results:

The EPA presented one of its two “Outstanding Environmental Achievement” awards to the Ala Wai Canal Watershed Improvement Project. Shortly thereafter, the Honolulu City Council presented the project with its own award, recognizing a great accomplishment.