Green Economy Report

Snapshot of Island Green Economy 

The report defined "Green Economy" as made up of businesses and people that provide products, services and knowledge related to areas such as: renewable energy and fuel; sustainable agriculture; green construction and energy efficiency; and environmental conservation and pollution mitigation.

This 46-page, full-color downloadable report traces public and private 'green' investment flowing to the State and the County of Hawaii and provides a snapshot of organizations leading the development of a 'greener' economy. 

"Many island businesses are looking at energy and environmental impacts of their business operation because minimizing resource use can improve the bottom line," said Randy Kurohara, Director of the Department of Research and Development. 

Significant amount of the Federal stimulus fund is going towards development of a clean energy and green technology.  Approximately $388 million are marked for energy related projects state-wide.  The Hawaii State Government received over $142 million on 'green' related programs, including $6 million to develop a green job training program and $3.25 million to develop a smart grid training program.

On Hawaii Island, about $47 million have been awarded to preserve or create additional jobs in green sectors such as: restoration of watersheds and national park facilities, energy efficiency retrofits of federal buildings, solar energy installations, residential energy evaluations, and mass transit improvements.  A description of specific projects and funding amounts are highlighted in the report.

The author of the report, Alex Frost, Economic Development Specialist for the department, emphasizes "green business practices are moving rapidly from the periphery to the mainstream.  The report provides a snapshot of what's happening locally for citizens, policy makers and practitioners interested in greening the island economy."