Why was the sandalwood industry sustainable during King Kamehameha I's rule?

The sustainability of the sandalwood industry during King Kamehameha I's rule can be attributed to the secure and limited harvesting rights that were established. This system ensured that the number of trees harvested did not exceed the forest's capacity to regenerate, allowing the sandalwood resources to be preserved over time. By controlling who could harvest sandalwood and limiting the amount that could be taken, the management of the resource supported long-term ecological balance while also meeting the demand created by external trade. This careful regulation prevented over-exploitation and helped maintain the industry's viability, making it sustainable throughout Kamehameha's reign.

In contrast, equal access to the trees would likely lead to overharvesting, as individuals might prioritize immediate gain over long-term sustainability. Similarly, the assertion that harvesting was not profitable does not reflect the reality of the lucrative sandalwood trade during this period. Lastly, the idea that ali‘i (chiefs) had no authority over the trees contradicts the traditional governance structures in Hawaiian society, where ali‘i held significant power over resources.