Relating To Regenerative Tourism.
The passage of SB2035 would significantly amend Section 226-8 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, laying the groundwork for the development of a tourism model that prioritizes local needs and aspirations. This includes fostering job opportunities for Hawaii's residents in the visitor industry and ensuring that the sector contributes positively to the health of local communities and environments. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Hawaii Tourism Authority updates its tourism functional plan to align with these new objectives, marking a shift towards a more inclusive and sustainable tourism strategy in Hawaii.
SB2035, titled 'Relating to Regenerative Tourism', aims to incorporate a regenerative framework into the State Planning Act, specifically enhancing objectives and policies regarding the visitor industry in Hawaii. The bill emphasizes creating a sustainable tourism model that aligns with the cultural, social, and environmental needs of the local population. By promoting community partnerships and emphasizing local engagement, the bill seeks to provide genuine experiences while protecting Hawaii's unique natural and cultural resources.
The sentiment around SB2035 appears to be largely positive among local advocacy groups and community leaders who feel that this bill represents a much-needed shift in the state's approach to tourism. They argue that regenerative tourism can enhance the well-being of the community while also promoting cultural integrity. However, some industry stakeholders express concern about feasibility and potential impacts on traditional tourism models, indicating a divide in opinions on the long-term sustainability of the proposed changes.
Despite the overall supportive sentiment, there are notable contentions regarding the specifics of how regenerative tourism will be implemented and regulated. Critics worry about the resources required to enact these changes, the potential for increased regulation on businesses within the tourism sector, and how these shifts may affect profitability. Additionally, ensuring equitable access for sociologically disadvantaged individuals and fostering genuine interactions between visitors and locals are areas where detailed strategies would be necessary to address concerns from both proponents and detractors of the bill.