Hawaii becomes first U.S. state to declare climate emergency
According to the Climate Mobilization Project, such declarations have been made by over 1,900 jurisdictions worldwide, including 144 within U.S. 24 states.
Hawaii
Hawaii’s state bird, the nene, is no longer an endangered species
Thanks to recovery efforts—including native captive breeding, rigorous habitat restoration and active management strategies—population numbers rose from 30 in 1960 to about 2,800 today.
Hawaii becomes 26th U.S. state to decriminalize marijuana
The new law removes the possibility of jail time as a penalty for up to three grams of marijuana, but maintains a $130 fine.
Scientists report that coral reefs in West Hawaii are now recovering from bleaching
“We surveyed over 14,000 coral colonies at 20 sites along the West Hawaii coast from Kawaihae to Keauhou and were thrilled to see that many of the area’s reefs have stabilized, which is the first step toward recovery.”
Hawaii bans use of toxic pesticide chlorpyrifos
Hawaii governor David Ige signed a bill banning the use of the pesticide chlorpyrifos, which has been linked to increased risk of learning disabilities, lower IQs, developmental delays, and behavior problems in children.
Hawaii passes law to make the state carbon neutral by 2045
The plan is the most ambitious emissions reduction and renewable energy plan of any state in the country.
Hawaii legislature passes bill banning sunscreens containing chemicals that kill coral reefs
The Hawaiian state legislature just passed a bill that would ban the sale of sunscreens containing the chemicals oxybenzone and octinoxate. Research has shown these chemicals are toxic to coral.