Encouraging Responsible Behavior: An Objective in Achieving Effective Management in Hawaii's Nearshore Waters by 2030

The State of Hawai’i is currently developing a plan to effectively manage 30% of Hawai’i’s nearshore environment by 2030. The goal of the Marine ‘30x30’ Initiative is to ensure sustainability in Hawai’i’s marine... [ view full abstract ]

The State of Hawai’i is currently developing a plan to effectively manage 30% of Hawai’i’s nearshore environment by 2030. The goal of the Marine ‘30x30’ Initiative is to ensure sustainability in Hawai’i’s marine environment, which allows the people of Hawai’i and our visitors to enjoy nearshore waters, support local livelihoods, and feed their families. One of the four objectives of the Marine 30x30 Initiative is to encourage responsible behavior through education and enforcement activities.  This objective will require a close collaboration between two state agencies, the Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE) and Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR). Strategic education and communication tactics will reach key audiences to promote responsible ocean use and compliance to state rules, while tailoring specific campaigns to stakeholder groups such as fishers, recreational users, and legislative decision makers.  Enforcement actions include pursuing increased marine enforcement units and streamlining the enforcement officer training process in order to increase efficacy. Initiating programs that focus on encouraging responsible behavior on several levels from community to individual will help to achieve effective management for thriving nearshore environments of Hawai’i, the ultimate goal of the Marine 30x30 Initiative.