Urging Endorsement of the Earth Charter and Adoption of Its Central Principles as Part of the Framework for Sustainable Planning and Development

House Committee on International Affairs (INT) - chair: Cabanilla, vice chair: Tokioka

Wednesday, March 21, 2007, 9:00 a.m. Room 329

Testifier: JoAnn Maruoka, Legislative Committee member, LWV-Hawaii

Click here to view HCR84

The League of Women Voters of Hawaii proudly supports HCR 84 and HR 60 to endorse the Earth Charter and adopt its central principles as part of the framework for sustainable planning and development for Hawaii. The Earth Charter and the values and principles it articulates -- environmental responsibility, peaceful coexistence, respect for life, democracy, and justice -- are inherently aligned with the cultural values of Hawaii, the spirit of Aloha and respect for the a'ina. Because our State seeks to be a leader in incorporating principles of sustainability into planning processes at all levels of government, it is sound and right to urge Hawaii's public leaders to adopt and use the Earth Charter to that end. The Earth Charter's inclusive ethical vision recognizes that environmental protection, human rights, equitable human development, and peace are interdependent and indivisible. This gives a new framework for thinking about and addressing these issues, with the result of a fresh, broad conception of what constitutes a sustainable community and sustainable development. At a time when major changes in how we think and live are urgently needed, the Earth Charter challenges us to examine our values and to choose a better way. It inspires in us a new sense of global interdependence and shared responsibility for the well-being of the human family and the larger living world. The Earth Charter is truly an expression of hope. We strongly urge your support for HCR 84 and HR 60. Thank you for the opportunity to testify.