Column: Put Hawaii’s green fee actions on GRID

By John Leong and Ulu Ching for Honolulu Star-Advertiser

George F. Lee / Honolulu Star-Advertiser

As members of the Care for ‘Aina Now coalition advocating for the green fee, we are encouraged that Hawaii is a significant step closer to the long-term protection of its natural and cultural resources.

The creation of Hawaii’s green fee reflects a shared understanding that while our natural beauty welcomes every visitor, each visit brings both benefits and costs. A small contribution helps ensure that the places people come to enjoy are cared for and sustained over time. In most cases, the green fee amounts to only a few dollars per trip, yet it is designed to support environmental protection, climate resilience, and long-term stewardship across the islands.

Passing the fee was an important act of leadership, but it is only the beginning. What will ultimately determine success is whether residents and visitors can see the positive outcomes these funds make possible. Green fee revenues will support critical work across multiple state agencies in partnership with community partners, including reef restoration, invasive species management, watershed protection, climate adaptation and infrastructure improvements. Yet today, there is no simple way for the public to understand where the money goes or what it is accomplishing as a whole.

Click here to read the full article published by Honolulu Star-Advertiser on Feb. 8.