Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SR52

Introduced
3/10/22  
Refer
3/11/22  
Report Pass
3/31/22  

Caption

Requesting The Governor To Endorse The New Plastics Economy Global Commitment And The Office Of Planning And Sustainable Development To Set Targets To Fulfill The New Plastics Economy Global Commitment.

Impact

By endorsing the New Plastics Economy Global Commitment, the state would align with international goals to enhance sustainability practices. The commitment calls for significant changes such as reduction of unnecessary plastic use, encouraging reusable alternatives, and amplifying recycling efforts. If adopted, Hawaii could set ambitious targets that reinforce public and commercial responsibility towards plastic use, ultimately aiming for a reduction in pollution and an improvement in environmental health.

Summary

Senate Resolution 52 (SR52) requests the Governor of Hawaii to support the New Plastics Economy Global Commitment, which aims to mitigate the environmental impact of plastic waste. The resolution highlights the alarming use of plastics, exemplified by the extensive consumption of single-use plastic products that, since 1950, have largely contributed to environmental degradation. The Senate emphasizes Hawaii's unique vulnerability to plastic pollution, citing damaging effects on natural landscapes and the crucial tourism sector, particularly illustrated by the severe pollution at Kamilo Beach.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SR52 is largely positive among environmental advocates and support groups, who view it as a proactive step towards sustainability and environmental protection. Many stakeholders in the community express hope that this resolution could catalyze further initiatives and policy development geared towards less reliance on plastics. However, there may be concerns about the implementation of these commitments and whether adequate support and resources will be allocated to achieve the targets lauded in the resolution.

Contention

Despite the broad consensus on the urgent need to address plastic pollution, some potential points of contention remain. Critics may question the effectiveness and enforcement of environmental policies, especially if the resolution does not come with a comprehensive plan and sufficient funding. Moreover, the resolution's reliance on the Governor's endorsement raises questions regarding the political will to implement significant changes within the confines of existing economic interests that heavily depend on plastics.

Companion Bills

HI HR47

Same As Requesting The Governor To Endorse The New Plastics Economy Global Commitment And The Office Of Planning And Sustainable Development To Set Targets To Fulfill The New Plastics Economy Global Commitment.

HI SCR57

Same As Requesting The Governor To Endorse The New Plastics Economy Global Commitment And The Office Of Planning And Sustainable Development To Set Targets To Fulfill The New Plastics Economy Global Commitment.

Previously Filed As

HI SR129

Requesting The Office Of Planning And Sustainable Development To Convene A Working Group To Develop Recommendations To Expand Blue Carbon Initiatives In The State.

HI HB2536

Relating To Single-use Plastics.

HI SCR151

Requesting The Office Of Planning And Sustainable Development To Convene A Working Group To Develop Recommendations To Expand Blue Carbon Initiatives In The State.

HI HCR37

Requesting The Office Of Planning And Sustainable Development To Convene A Working Group To Develop Recommendations To Expand Blue Carbon Initiatives In The State.

HI HR26

Requesting The Office Of Planning And Sustainable Development To Convene A Working Group To Develop Recommendations To Expand Blue Carbon Initiatives In The State.

HI SB2576

Relating To Single-use Plastics.

HI SB659

Relating To Single-use Plastics.

HI HB1897

Relating To Single-use Plastics.

HI HB85

Relating To Single-use Plastics.

HI SB785

Relating To Sustainable Development Goals.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.