Hawaii is not just any place; it's a recognized ecological and cultural gem of the entire world. As residents of Hawaii, we have witnessed firsthand how our environment shapes our happiness as well as livelihoods, considering the economy is disproportionately based upon tourists drawn to our ecology. 

We request that the County of Hawai‘i adopt stronger protections for mature trees in development areas. We call for:

• Mandatory arborist review for removal of any tree over 24 inches in diameter.
• Create position for city arborists for such assessments, not privately employed arborists, to avoid conflict of interest.
• Permit requirements for tree removal on public corridors & thoroughfares on private property, commercial or multi-unit residential projects.
• Mandatory replacement planting of large-caliper native trees when removals occur.
• Enforcement of erosion and drainage controls following tree removal.
   

We believe these standards will protect our environment, preserve neighborhood character, and ensure responsible development in addition to holding ecosystems together, serving as a sanctuary for native wildlife and water run off (key to keep keeping our coral reefs healthy) among many other valuable assets.

Building upon places such as where this recent iconic Banyan stood (in photo), not only threatens our natural environment but also hampers ecological tourism, a significant part of our local economy. 

Please join me in signing this petition. Together, let's stand for and protect what makes Hawaii truly special and stop the desecration of the 'aina without the enforcement of more accountability and sustainability.