Hawaii’s Governor Josh Green, M.D. has signed a number of bills to expand the state’s efforts to preserve Hawaii’s natural resources and foster sustainable tourism practices.
The legislation strengthens existing laws and policies in environmental conservation, regenerative land use, marine activities regulation and tourism management strategies.
“These bills collectively reinforce our commitment to sustainable tourism practices, environmental conservation and the preservation of Hawai’i’s unique natural resources,” Governor Green said.
HB 2475 strengthens enforcement enforcement measures under the Department of Land and Natural Resources, safeguarding marine resources and public safety. It specifically addresses people who promote unlicensed ocean tours and other actiivies on social media pretending they’re just “friends and family” trips. These unpermitted ocean tour operators, the bill said, “advertise and operate without regard for laws, rules, regulations, and cultural awareness.”
SB 2575 prohibits seabed mining in Hawaii’s state marine waters, citing environmental risks. It also upholds Hawaii’s constitutional mandate for a clean and healthy environment. The Act supports sustainable marine resource management while respecting Native Hawaiian cultural connections to the ocean.
SB 3364 aims to improve natural and cultural resources, develop a sustainable tourism infrastructure and promote regenerative tourism practices, with a particular focus on preserving and promoting Native Hawaiian culture. Some of the provisions it covers include “engaging in collaborative efforts that provide visitors with genuine and meaningful experiences in Hawaii; improving destinations “for current and future generations for the well-being of the environment, residents, indigenous communities, and visitors”; and making sure “Hawaiian cultural practitioners and cultural sites are supported, nurtured, and engaged in sustaining the visitor industry.”
HB 2248 appropriates $1 million to develop a comprehensive beach management plan led by the University of Hawaii Sea Grant College Program. The plan will address beach erosion and will enhance recreational access. The plan also seeks to preserve natural habitats through community input and innovative coastal protection strategies.
“These bills represent significant steps forward in safeguarding Hawai‘i’s environment and promoting responsible tourism,” said Governor Green. “They build upon several bills I signed previously that aim to protect our environment, further clean energy legislation and enact climate mitigation and resilience measures.”
