HONOLULU, Hawaii (Island News) — A group of Hawai‘i Pacific University students is giving fashion a sustainable twist, encouraging people to swap instead of shop.
Their event, called The Green Xchange, transformed Aloha Tower Marketplace into a hub for community members to trade gently used clothing and accessories for free. The goal was simple: to show how small lifestyle changes can help reduce waste and protect Hawai‘i’s environment.
“We don’t want to have clothes go to waste,” organizer Sollaug Norheim said. “This was a way for people to get a new piece, secondhand, but for free.”
Student organizer Giovanna Scholby says the event aims to tackle the environmental impact of fast fashion.
“Every single year tons and tons of clothes go into waste, bad air pollution and it is just so harmful when there’s a better way to stop the overconsumption, which is why we chose this route,” Scholby said.
Hawai‘i imports nearly 90 percent of its goods, including clothing. That means every fast-fashion purchase carries a shipping footprint. The students hope that community events like The Green Xchange will encourage island residents to think twice before buying new, and consider the environmental cost behind each item.
Local vendors also joined the event, showcasing products designed with sustainability in mind.
Olivia Lutz, owner of Summer and Sea Jewelry, said she upcycles broken or tarnished pieces into long-lasting designs. “I like recycling stuff in my jewelry as well. I’ll upcycle broken jewelry or tarnishable and make it with high-end materials that can last a lifetime so you don’t have to keep buying more stuff.”
Jaidon Matthews of Paniolo Wellness shared that her business uses UV-protected glass jars and paper packaging instead of plastic to keep operations eco-friendly. “We source locally and wanted to give back to the economy that way. With that glass jar, we’re not throwing away a bunch of plastic — trying to keep it as sustainable as possible.”
Attendees said the event wasn’t just about clothes, it was about connection.
“Everything is better quality, it lasts longer, and I feel better knowing someone handmade it,” shopper Sienna Spears said.
The Green Xchange was organized by HPU’s Special Events class, blending fashion, music, and local business in a celebration of sustainability.
Organizers hope the concept catches on, sparking more community swap events and inspiring people across Hawai‘i to make small, everyday changes that protect the planet.