Hawaii Senate Bill SCR23

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/13/23
• Refer: 3/9/23

Caption

Requesting The State Of Hawaii To Recognize The Fourth Saturday Of Every September As "trash Fishing Day".

Impact

The resolution draws attention to alarming statistics provided by PETA, noting that approximately 2.7 trillion fish are killed worldwide annually, primarily due to fishing practices. Furthermore, it points out the dire consequences of pollution, with an estimated 100 million tons of plastic currently in the oceans, which affects not only marine life but local economies dependent on healthy fishing communities. The recognition of 'Trash Fishing Day' is expected to serve as a proactive step towards reducing marine debris and could facilitate community engagement in revitalizing the health of marine habitats.

Summary

SCR23 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution that seeks to have the State of Hawaii officially recognize the fourth Saturday of every September as 'Trash Fishing Day.' This initiative aims to encourage residents and visitors alike to participate in the removal of marine debris from Hawaii's waters instead of traditional fishing. The resolution highlights significant concerns regarding the environmental impact of discarded materials in oceans and waterways, which harm marine ecosystems and wildlife. By promoting 'Trash Fishing Day,' the resolution aims to raise awareness about marine pollution and inspire community involvement in environmental conservation efforts.

Contention

While the bill appears to garner broad support for promoting environmental awareness, it may also provoke discussions around the effectiveness of such initiatives in addressing larger systemic issues of pollution and conservation practices. Critics could argue that merely designating a day for trash fishing may not suffice to counteract the ongoing threats posed by pollution and that more concrete legislative measures may be necessary. Nevertheless, the resolution is framed as an opportunity to unite the community in a shared goal towards environmental stewardship and ocean protection.