Save Kauai brings together current information about Kauai and web-based tools that allow you to take action. If we want to affect the future of Kauai in a pono way we must organize and begin implementing solutions, not just fighting the problems.
Aloha 'Aina, Imua Kakou!
Although many of the goals described in the state’s 2050 Draft Plan are on the right track, the document seems like much more of a vision than an actual plan. The language is vague and broad. Words like “encourage” appear often, whereas words like “mandate” are absent. The document leaves much to be desired concerning implementation and action.
Sustainability is urgent. The goals discussed in the draft plan should be immediate priorities structured around concrete action steps, not hopes for 2050.
Another problem I have with the plan is its focus on maintaining our reliance on the military and tourism. The second goal of the plan states, “For the past three decades, tourism, defense, construction, and agriculture have been the foundations of our economy. These must be supported and sustained” (pg49). The military, by its very nature, is absolutely contrary to the goals of sustainability. Large-scale, corporate dominated tourism is also socially, culturally, environmentally and economically destructive. We cannot begin to move towards a truly sustainable Hawai’i if we continue to rely on tourism and the military as our economic bases.
The design of a Sustainability Council with nine “public members” that are appointed by the governor is another troubling part of the plan. What if Linda Lingle II is governor? Enough said.