Traditional social marketing utilizes social/behavioral psychology and marketing techniques to influence behaviors that benefit individuals and the community for the greater social good.  Community-based social marketing (CBSM) is a relatively new variation to social marketing, pioneered by the Canadian psychologist Dr. Doug McKenzie-Mohr, as a systematic way to foster more sustainable behavior and ensure more successful program outcomes.  CBSM deviates from traditional approaches by realizing that programs that are focused solely on information dissemination and/or economic incentives does not necessarily change behavior.

HOK is applying CBSM strategies in Hawaiʻi through our residential storm water pollution prevention program.  The steps of our CBSM program include selecting behaviors; identifying barriers and benefits; developing strategies; conducting a pilot; broad-scale implementation; and follow up evaluation.  Currently HOK is working on upfront research to understand the barriers and benefits to specific behaviors that contribute to residential non-point source pollution.  We will be circulating a survey within the next few weeks aimed at gathering information that will help us develop our CBSM program aimed at better lawn and home care practices.  

HOK is looking to connect with other organizations that are implementing CBSM programs or are interested in learning more about CBSM.  Contact [email protected] if you are interested in connecting about CBSM.

Also, the Hawaii Conservation Alliance will be hosting a CBSM workshop presented by Dr. McKenzie-Mohr on March 31, 2014.  For more information, visit:

http://www.hawaiiconservation.org/events/community-based-social-marketing-workshop

Hui o Ko'olaupoko and Surfrider Foundation will be presenting a Rain Garden Workshop on Thursday, February 27th from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm at the Capitol One 360 Cafe located in Waikiki at 1958 Kalakaua Ave.

Rain gardens are flat bottomed depressions planted with native vegetation use to capture excess storm water and pollutants from rooftops, driveways, sidewalks, parking lots or streets.  Rain gardens are great projects for helping to protect stream and ocean health.

This workshop will cover all aspects of designing and building a rain garden in your yard.  The workshop will help you to determine a good site for your rain garden; how to conduct an infiltration test and sizing your rain garden accordingly; laying out your design; plant selection; purchasing materials and installation process; and maintenance of your rain garden.  

If you are planning on attending and are able to bring a computer or tablet, please visit our website  to download a copy of the Hawaii Residential Rain Garden Manual to follow along with during the workshop.  Hard copies of the manual will also be available for purchase for $15 during the workshop.  Although it is helpful to have the manual to follow along with during the workshop and for future reference, it is not critical that you have a copy.

All are welcome to attend.  Food and beverages are available for purchase at the Capitol One 360 Cafe during the workshop. Parking in the Capitol One parking lot is limited so please carpool if possible.  Additional parking is available at Fort DeRussy for $7/day.

Please RSVP via  Facebook or by e-mail  so we can get an idea of how many people will be attending.