HI HR95

Hawaii House Resolution affirms support for expanding programs that increase tree canopy coverage and install shade trees in urban areas to combat urban heat island effects statewide.

City and County of Honolulu's Urban Tree Plan aims to increase urban tree canopy to 35% by 2035, though recent assessments show declining canopy coverage and disparities among communities with different socioeconomic levels.

State and county agencies are requested to collaborate on assessing urban heat island conditions, identifying priority high-heat/low-canopy areas, and developing statewide urban tree canopy standards and targets.

Agencies should evaluate opportunities to integrate shade tree strategies into capital improvement projects, housing development, transit-oriented development, and climate resilience planning.

Certified copies to be transmitted to the Governor, Chair of the Board of Land and Natural Resources, Director of the Office of Planning and Sustainable Development, and all county mayors.