Hawaii, with its stunning natural beauty and a strong commitment to sustainability, has been increasingly focused on using eco-friendly and locally sourced materials for various constructions, including sauna rooms. This not only aligns with the global trend towards environmental conservation but also respects the unique ecological balance of the islands.
One of the primary materials that are commonly used and highly favored for sauna rooms in Hawaii is locally sourced wood. Koa wood, native to Hawaii, is a top choice. It is renowned for its durability, beautiful grain, and natural resistance to decay. Using Koa wood for sauna benches, walls, or even the ceiling not only adds a touch of elegance but also supports the local economy and reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting materials from afar. Another locally available wood option is Ohia. It is also durable and can withstand the high temperatures and humidity inside a sauna. Ohia wood has a distinct appearance that gives the sauna room a rustic and authentic Hawaiian feel. These local woods are harvested in a sustainable manner, ensuring that the forests are not depleted and that the ecological balance is maintained.
Hawaii is rich in volcanic activity, and as a result, basalt stone is abundantly available. Basalt is an excellent choice for sauna rooms as it has good heat retention properties. It can be used for the sauna heater surround or as flooring. The natural dark color of basalt adds a sense of warmth and earthiness to the space. Moreover, using locally sourced basalt reduces the need for importing other stone materials, which saves on energy and transportation costs. The extraction and processing of basalt in Hawaii are often done with an eye towards minimizing environmental impact, making it a sustainable choice for sauna construction.
Coconut fiber, also known as coir, is another locally sourced material that can be incorporated into sauna rooms. It can be used for insulation purposes. Coconut fiber is a natural and renewable resource that is derived from the outer husk of coconuts, which are plentiful in Hawaii. It has good thermal properties and can help to maintain a consistent temperature inside the sauna. Additionally, it is biodegradable and does not release harmful substances into the environment. Coconut fiber can be used in the walls or ceiling to provide additional insulation and create a more energy-efficient sauna room.
Pandanus leaves are a traditional Hawaiian material that can be used in a creative way for sauna rooms. They can be woven into mats or used as decorative elements. Pandanus leaves are lightweight, durable, and have a natural fragrance. They add a unique tropical touch to the sauna environment. By using pandanus leaves, which are locally sourced and abundant, designers and builders can create a sauna room that is truly in harmony with the Hawaiian landscape and culture. These leaves can be used on the floor as mats or on the walls as a decorative feature, providing a natural and aesthetically pleasing look.
In line with the concept of sustainability, many sauna rooms in Hawaii are now incorporating solar panels to power the heating elements and lighting. Hawaii has abundant sunlight throughout the year, making solar energy a viable and clean option. By using solar panels, the sauna rooms can reduce their dependence on grid electricity, which may be generated from non-renewable sources. This not only makes the sauna operation more eco-friendly but also helps to lower long-term energy costs. Additionally, the installation of solar panels on sauna rooms can serve as an example of sustainable energy use and encourage others to adopt similar practices.