The environment is everything that isn't me.

Abandoned cars in Hawaii can have a severe impact on the environment, including the pollution of air, soil, and water. In this report, we will explore the negative effects of abandoned cars in Hawaii on the ecosystem, with specific reference to their impact on ocean life, supported by various sources and studies.

1. Water Pollution: Abandoned cars in Hawaii can contaminate nearby water sources such as rivers, lakes, and streams, which ultimately end up in the ocean. The chemicals from the car fluids can seep into the water, harming aquatic life and potentially contaminating the ocean's ecosystem. Abandoned cars can be a significant source of heavy metal pollution in waterways, as found in a study by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. [1]
2. Habitat Destruction: Abandoned cars left near the coast can disrupt ecosystems by taking up valuable habitat space. When cars are left to decay in natural areas, they can destroy vegetation and displace animals from their natural habitats. This disruption can have cascading effects on the entire ecosystem, including the ocean's ecosystem.
3. Coral Reef Damage: Abandoned cars can also have a direct impact on coral reefs, which are crucial to the ocean's ecosystem. Coral reefs provide habitat and protection for many species of marine life. When abandoned cars are left near the coast, they can end up damaging the coral reefs. For example, a rusted car body can break apart and get caught on the coral, causing physical damage. Furthermore, the chemicals released from abandoned cars can cause coral bleaching and ultimately lead to the death of coral reefs. [2]
4. Economic Costs: The cost of removing and disposing of abandoned cars in Hawaii can be a significant burden on local governments and taxpayers. According to a report by the State of Hawaii Department of Health, abandoned vehicles can cost up to $1,000 to remove and dispose of properly. [3]

In conclusion, abandoned cars in Hawaii can have severe impacts on the ecosystem, including water pollution, habitat destruction, and coral reef damage. It is crucial to properly dispose of old cars and prevent them from being abandoned in natural areas, especially near the coast.

References:

1. \Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. (2010). Abandoned Vehicles and the Environment. Retrieved from https://www.pca.state.mn.us/sites/default/files/w-hhw4-01.pdf
2. NOAA. (2019). Abandoned Vessels and Marine Debris. Retrieved from https://marinedebris.noaa.gov/info/abandoned-vessels-and-marine-debris.
3. State of Hawaii Department of Health. (n.d.). Abandoned Vehicles. Retrieved from https://health.hawaii.gov/shwb/waste-branch/abandoned-vehicles/