HI HCR37

Requests the Office of Planning and Sustainable Development to convene a working group to develop recommendations for expanding blue carbon initiatives in Hawaii.

Working group membership includes the Director of the Office of Planning and Sustainable Development (chair), Director of Land and Natural Resources, Chief Energy Officer of the Hawaii State Energy Office, one House member, one Senate member, representatives from nonprofit organizations focused on Hawaiian rights, environmental preservation, and climate change mitigation, and a University of Hawaii expert on ocean carbon absorption.

Working group is directed to examine current blue carbon initiatives in Hawaii and abroad, the role of carbon sinks in greenhouse gas mitigation, development of carbon sequestration measurement methods, and the New South Wales Blue Carbon Strategy 2022-2027 and other international frameworks.

Working group must submit a report with findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2025 Regular Session convenes.

Certified copies of the resolution shall be transmitted to the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and relevant state officials and agencies.