When you first explore the Ocean Health Index (OHI), the thing that usually sticks most is the final score, a number ranging from 0-100. While there are a multitude of ways these scores can catalyze discussion and stakeholder engagement, another question is often what else can OHI be used for?

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While located in the middle of the Pacific far from the world’s large population centers, Samoa’s oceans are not immune to the impacts of global issues such as sea level rise, ocean acidification, habitat destruction, and overfishing. With a strong connection to the ocean deeply ingrained in the way of life in Samoa, sustainable ocean management remains a necessity to preserve culture and livelihoods.

Mālama ʻāina, or care for the land and ocean, is a concept that resonates throughout Hawaiʻi. Rooted in a long history of sustainable resource use, residents of Hawaiʻi recognize the health of their island communities and environment is intertwined, and the ocean is embodied in the spirit of Hawaiʻi.