Urging The Environmental Health Administration Of The Department Of Health To Conduct A Feasibility Study On Implementation Of A Cigarette Litter Prevention Program In Hawaii.
The proposed feasibility study could lead to a substantial impact on Hawaii's environment and public spaces. Previous implementations of Cigarette Litter Prevention Programs in other communities suggest that such initiatives can reduce cigarette litter by approximately 50% within the first few months. The resolution highlights the potential benefits of reducing visible litter, thereby enhancing the natural beauty of Hawaii, which could improve tourism and local enjoyment of public spaces.
House Concurrent Resolution 91 (HCR91) urges the Environmental Health Administration of the Department of Health in Hawaii to conduct a feasibility study on implementing a Cigarette Litter Prevention Program. This program, initiated by Keep America Beautiful in 2002, aims to significantly reduce cigarette butt litter, a pressing environmental issue. Data from the 2020 Keep America Beautiful National Litter Study indicates that cigarette butts are the most littered item in the United States, contributing to a larger conversation about public health and community cleanliness.
HCR91 outlines a detailed framework for effective cigarette litter prevention, including reviewing local litter laws, public awareness campaigns, the installation of ash receptacles in strategic locations, and providing portable ashtrays to smokers. While the resolution does not explicitly mention points of contention, the implementation of such programs can sometimes face challenges such as funding, public compliance, and the need for coordination between various state and local entities. These factors may need to be addressed during the feasibility study to ensure successful adoption and enforcement of a cigarette litter prevention strategy.