KAHULUI, Hawaii — A major step in reducing the impact of climate change and increasing Hawaii's food security needs was celebrated Monday on Maui.

The farming company Mahi Pono has reached a milestone of planting 1 million trees, and in less than three years, it has returned 41,000 acres of land to diversified agriculture.

Hawaii imports nearly 90% of all of its food, and Mahi Pono aims to focus on transforming former monocropped sugarcane fields into a hub of diversified agriculture.

Among the trees planted are a variety of citrus plants, coffee, avocado, papaya, ulu and several types of windbreak plants.

Mahi Pono's responsible farming practices have enabled the company to reach its tree-planting goal in less than three years, while significantly cutting back on emissions and making efficient use of resources.