Hawaii's governor has enacted a tax hike on hotel rooms and vacation rentals aimed at generating funds for climate change mitigation efforts. Expected to raise around $100 million annually, the law will address issues such as eroding shorelines, wildfires, and emergency preparedness after the devastating Lahaina wildfire. The tax on accommodation will increase from 10.25% to 11%, while a new 11% cruise ship tax will also align with accommodation taxes. This pioneering measure reflects a growing need for proactive climate strategies.
Green said other states and nations will need to act similarly to address climate disasters roiling the planet. There will be no way to deal with these crises without some forward-thinking mechanism, Green said.
Officials estimate the tax will generate nearly $100 million annually for projects like replenishing sand on eroding Waikiki beaches and clearing flammable invasive grasses in Lahaina.
Collection
[
|
...
]