HI SCR151

Requests the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism, in conjunction with the Department of Agriculture, to conduct a study on the economic impacts of vertical farming operations.

Study must focus on food production, potential job creation opportunities, and identification of urban areas suitable for vertical farming.

Departments must report findings and recommendations to the Legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the Regular Session of 2018.

Recognizes vertical farming as an indoor farming technique using controlled-environment agriculture that can increase crop yields in limited land space.

Cites successful international examples such as Singapore and emphasizes Hawaii's need to explore agricultural alternatives that balance urban development with food production and responsible land stewardship.