HI HR26

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

Working group composition includes the Director of Office of Planning and Sustainable Development (as chair), Director of Land and Natural Resources, Chief Energy Officer of Hawaii State Energy Office, one House member, one Senate member, and representatives from nonprofit organizations specializing in Hawaiian rights, environmental preservation, and climate change mitigation.

Working group to evaluate 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 as a model.

Submit findings and recommendations, including any proposed legislation, to the Legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the Regular Session of 2025.

Transmit certified copies to the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Director of Land and Natural Resources, President of the University of Hawaii System, and other relevant state officials.