HI HR45

Hawaii House Resolution urges the Executive Branch to position the state as a global leader in sustainable tourism that protects cultural and natural resources while enhancing resident quality of life and visitor experiences.

Calls for mandatory third-party certification of tourist-serving businesses (hotels, transient accommodations, tour operators) through accredited organizations like the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, replacing current voluntary self-assessment programs.

Urges Hawaii to pursue Certified Sustainable Destination status from the Global Sustainable Tourism Council as soon as practicable.

Recommends minimizing expansion of tourist accommodations until sustainable practices are adopted and effectively enforced to reduce stress on residents, infrastructure, and the environment.

Emphasizes that sustainability in Hawaii must include restoring and preserving Native Hawaiian ancestral land, rights, and practices, and stopping ongoing exploitation of Native Hawaiian cultural and natural resources.