News

As climate change brings rising sea levels and intensifying droughts to Hawaii, ARCS Honolulu Scholar Kauanoe Greene is researching how native plants can survive changing environmental conditions.

A doctoral student in botany at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, Greene studies aalii, a native Hawaiian plant commonly used in ecological restoration. Her research examines how populations of the species respond to drought, fire and the combined effects of salinity and drought.

“Currently, we're seeing reduced seedling recruitment and establishment because conditions have been so stressful,” Greene explained. 

Her goal is to identify plant populations that can better tolerate these conditions, helping conservation professionals restore Hawaii's native ecosystems.

Greene's ARCS-supported research focuses on how coastal populations of aalii respond to increasing salt exposure and drought. By comparing plants from windward and leeward areas across the Hawaiian Islands, she hopes to understand which populations are best equipped to survive these challenges.

The findings could help restoration practitioners select plants suited to specific environmental conditions.

“We're trying to see if we can find different varieties that are more tolerant under drought,” Greene said. “Hopefully, they can be established in different areas to increase survivorship and help restore our native ecosystem.”

Support from the ARCS Foundation Honolulu Chapter is helping Greene connect her scientific research with practical conservation efforts.

The funding supports travel between islands to collect seeds and meet with restoration practitioners, whose firsthand knowledge offers valuable perspectives on how native plants grow across Hawaii's diverse environments.

“The funding helps me connect with experts from these places to hear about their insights and knowledge of the area,” Greene shared. "It also helps me purchase greenhouse supplies and materials needed to simulate environmental stressors, grow plants, and monitor their responses under controlled conditions."

Together, these opportunities allow her to combine experimental research with field-based knowledge to better inform restoration efforts.

After completing her PhD, Greene hopes to continue working in conservation or ecological restoration, whether through academic research, teaching, or hands-on fieldwork.

“I think what is most important to me is contributing to conservation here in Hawaii,” Greene said.

With support from ARCS Foundation, Greene is developing the knowledge and connections to help protect Hawaii's native plants and ecosystems for future generations.