Requesting The Office Of Planning And Sustainable Development To Formulate And Implement Policies To Mitigate The Impacts Of Rising Sea Levels On The State's Coastline, Including Beaches.
The resolution calls for a comprehensive state policy that should encompass various strategies to address the detrimental effects of rising sea levels. It mandates a detailed study on the effects of these changes in each county, which will inform the legislative body regarding the specific local impacts, including those affecting public beach parks. This approach aims not only to gather crucial data but also to promote legislative action that stems from thorough analysis, ultimately shaping Hawaii’s long-term coastal management and adaptability to climate change.
Senate Resolution 168 requests the Office of Planning and Sustainable Development of Hawaii to develop and implement statewide policies aimed at mitigating the impacts of rising sea levels on the state’s coastline, including its beaches. Given the scientific data surrounding the concerning trends of climate change, particularly the accelerated rise in sea levels around Hawaii, the resolution identifies the severe implications for the state’s beaches and coastal areas. The historical increase in sea levels—including a ten-inch rise around Hilo Bay since 1950—is underscored as a crucial impetus for this policy formation.
While the resolution is strategically aimed at proactive coastal management, it may elicit discussions regarding the allocation of resources and the practical aspects of policy implementation. Potential contention may arise around how effectively the Office of Planning and Sustainable Development can synthesize community needs with state-level directives. Additionally, ensuring inclusive participation in the policy development process is vital, as local stakeholders might have varying perspectives on beach use, conservation priorities, and the impacts of climate initiatives on traditional coastal access.