Environmental Sustainability Regulations in Hawaii

1. What is the primary legislation governing environmental sustainability in Hawaii?

The primary legislation governing environmental sustainability in Hawaii is the Hawaii Environmental Response, Energy, and Food Security Tax Act of 2007. This act, also known as Act 105, established the Environmental Response, Energy, and Food Security Tax, which provides funding for various environmental and energy initiatives in the state. The act aims to promote environmental sustainability by addressing pollution prevention, energy efficiency, and food security concerns in Hawaii. Additionally, the act supports efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote renewable energy sources to mitigate the impacts of climate change on the islands. Hawaii has also taken additional measures such as adopting the Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative to transition to 100% renewable energy by 2045.

2. How does Hawaii define sustainable development within its regulatory framework?

Hawaii defines sustainable development within its regulatory framework through various statutes and policies that aim to balance economic growth, environmental protection, and social equity. Specifically, Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS) Chapter 226 outlines the state’s commitment to sustainability by promoting responsible land use, renewable energy sources, and conservation practices. Additionally, Hawaii’s Office of Planning supports sustainable development by incorporating the principles of sustainability into state and county land use plans. This includes considering environmental impacts, promoting smart growth initiatives, and encouraging community engagement in decision-making processes. Overall, Hawaii’s regulatory framework emphasizes the importance of long-term resource stewardship and resilience in the face of climate change challenges.

3. What are the key environmental impact assessment requirements for projects in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, projects are subject to stringent environmental impact assessment requirements to ensure the protection of the unique and delicate ecosystems of the islands. Some key requirements for projects in Hawaii include:

1. Environmental Review: Projects must undergo a comprehensive environmental review process to identify potential impacts on the environment, including air quality, water resources, wildlife habitat, and cultural resources.

2. Public Participation: Stakeholder engagement and public consultation are essential parts of the environmental impact assessment process in Hawaii. Public input is sought to gather information, address concerns, and incorporate community perspectives into the decision-making process.

3. Compliance with State Laws: Projects in Hawaii must comply with state environmental regulations, such as the Hawaii Environmental Policy Act (HEPA) and Chapter 343 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, which outline the requirements for environmental impact assessments.

4. Mitigation Measures: Projects are required to implement mitigation measures to minimize or offset any adverse environmental impacts identified during the assessment process. This may include habitat restoration, pollution control measures, or alternative project designs to reduce environmental harm.

5. Monitoring and Reporting: Projects are often required to establish monitoring programs to track environmental impacts over time and report on their progress in meeting environmental commitments. Regular reporting enables regulatory agencies and the public to assess compliance and effectiveness of mitigation measures.

By adhering to these key environmental impact assessment requirements, projects in Hawaii can help protect the unique environment of the islands and promote sustainable development practices in the region.

4. How does Hawaii regulate air quality to promote environmental sustainability?

Hawaii regulates air quality through a combination of state and federal regulations to promote environmental sustainability.

1. The state Department of Health’s Clean Air Branch implements and enforces regulations that set permissible limits on emissions from various sources, such as industrial facilities, power plants, vehicles, and other sources of pollution.

2. Hawaii has adopted the federal Clean Air Act standards, enforced by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to ensure that air quality meets national ambient air quality standards.

3. The state also has specific regulations to address local environmental challenges, such as volcanic emissions on the Big Island, where sulfur dioxide emissions can impact air quality and public health.

4. Hawaii encourages the use of cleaner energy sources like renewable energy and electric vehicles to reduce emissions and improve air quality. Incentive programs and regulations promote the adoption of these sustainable technologies throughout the state.

Overall, Hawaii’s comprehensive regulatory framework aims to protect public health, preserve the environment, and promote sustainability by regulating air quality effectively.

5. What are the regulations governing water quality in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, the regulations governing water quality are primarily enforced by the State of Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) through the Clean Water Branch. These regulations focus on protecting the quality and purity of both surface waters (such as lakes, rivers, and streams) and groundwater to ensure they are safe for human consumption and support healthy ecosystems. Some key regulations governing water quality in Hawaii include:

1. Hawaii Administrative Rules (HAR) Title 11, Chapter 54, which establishes water quality standards for Hawaii’s surface waters, setting specific limits for various pollutants to protect human health and the environment.

2. The Federal Clean Water Act, which sets regulations and standards for water quality at the federal level, and which the State of Hawaii must comply with. This includes requirements for permitting and monitoring discharges into waterways.

3. The Safe Drinking Water Act, which regulates the quality of drinking water in Hawaii, ensuring that public water systems meet specific health-based standards and are regularly monitored for contaminants.

4. The Underground Injection Control program, which regulates the injection of fluids underground to protect groundwater sources from contamination.

5. Additionally, there are specific regulations and guidelines for wastewater treatment plants, agricultural runoff, industrial discharges, and stormwater management to prevent pollution and maintain water quality in Hawaii.

Overall, these regulations aim to protect Hawaii’s water resources, promote sustainable water management practices, and safeguard public health and the environment from the harmful effects of water pollution.

6. How does Hawaii address solid and hazardous waste management in its environmental regulations?

In Hawaii, solid and hazardous waste management is regulated by various state and federal laws to protect public health and the environment. The state Department of Health oversees the enforcement of these regulations through its Solid and Hazardous Waste Branch. Some key ways in which Hawaii addresses solid and hazardous waste management include:

1. Comprehensive waste management plans: Hawaii has developed comprehensive waste management plans to guide the proper handling, storage, transportation, and disposal of solid and hazardous wastes. These plans aim to minimize the generation of waste, promote recycling and reuse practices, and ensure the safe treatment and disposal of hazardous materials.

2. Waste classification and permitting: The state categorizes waste based on its characteristics and potential environmental impact. Facilities handling hazardous waste must obtain permits from the Department of Health and comply with specific regulations for storage, transportation, and disposal. These permits include requirements for monitoring, reporting, and emergency response planning.

3. Waste reduction initiatives: Hawaii encourages waste reduction and recycling through various programs and initiatives, such as the Hawaii Materials Recycling Program and the Electronic Waste and Television Recycling Program. These efforts aim to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills and promote sustainable practices throughout the state.

4. Pollution prevention and cleanup: Hawaii also has regulations in place to prevent pollution from solid and hazardous waste sites. The state conducts inspections and monitoring to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and takes enforcement actions against violators. Additionally, cleanup efforts are undertaken at contaminated sites to mitigate environmental risks and protect public health.

Overall, Hawaii has established a robust regulatory framework to address solid and hazardous waste management, emphasizing prevention, proper handling, and responsible disposal practices to safeguard the environment and public health.

7. What are the renewable energy requirements and goals in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, there are ambitious renewable energy requirements and goals set to transition the state towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy system. Some of the key regulations and targets include:

1. Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS): Hawaii has one of the most aggressive RPS targets in the United States, aiming to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2045. This means that all electricity sold in the state must come from renewable sources such as wind, solar, geothermal, and hydroelectric power.

2. Interconnection Standards: Hawaii has specific regulations in place to facilitate the integration of renewable energy systems, such as solar panels, into the grid. These standards ensure that renewable energy projects can connect to the grid safely and efficiently.

3. Net Energy Metering (NEM) Program: The NEM program in Hawaii allows customers with solar panels or other renewable energy systems to receive credit for the excess electricity they generate and feed back into the grid. This incentivizes the adoption of renewable energy technologies among residential and commercial customers.

4. Energy Efficiency Targets: In addition to renewable energy goals, Hawaii has established energy efficiency targets to reduce overall energy consumption and promote energy conservation. These measures complement the state’s renewable energy efforts by reducing the overall demand for electricity.

Overall, Hawaii’s renewable energy requirements and goals reflect a strong commitment to combating climate change, reducing dependency on fossil fuels, and promoting sustainable development in the state’s energy sector.

8. How does Hawaii regulate greenhouse gas emissions to combat climate change?

Hawaii has implemented several regulations and strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. Here are some key ways Hawaii regulates greenhouse gas emissions:

1. Renewable Portfolio Standards: Hawaii has set aggressive renewable portfolio standards requiring the state to generate a significant portion of its electricity from renewable sources such as wind, solar, and geothermal energy.

2. Cap-and-Trade Program: Hawaii has explored the possibility of implementing a cap-and-trade program to limit greenhouse gas emissions from industrial sources. This system would set a cap on total emissions and allow companies to buy and sell carbon credits to meet their targets.

3. Transportation Initiatives: Hawaii has focused on improving transportation infrastructure to reduce vehicle emissions. This includes promoting electric vehicles, investing in public transportation, and encouraging carpooling and alternative transportation options.

4. Energy Efficiency Standards: Hawaii has established energy efficiency standards for buildings and appliances to reduce energy consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions associated with electricity generation.

5. Sustainable Land Use Planning: Hawaii has implemented land use planning strategies to preserve natural habitats, protect agricultural land, and minimize urban sprawl. This approach helps reduce emissions from deforestation and land degradation.

Overall, Hawaii’s comprehensive approach to regulating greenhouse gas emissions includes a mix of policies aimed at reducing emissions from various sectors and promoting renewable energy sources to achieve its climate goals.

9. What are the regulations regarding biodiversity conservation in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, there are several regulations in place to protect and conserve biodiversity, given the state’s unique and fragile ecosystem. Some of the key regulations and initiatives include:

1. The Hawaii Biodiversity Strategy, which sets forth a comprehensive framework for the conservation and sustainable use of Hawaii’s biological diversity.

2. The Endangered Species Act, which protects endangered and threatened species by prohibiting their take and implementing recovery plans for their conservation.

3. The Natural Area Reserve System, which designates and protects important ecosystems and rare species across the islands.

4. The State Environmental Policy Act, which requires environmental assessments and impact statements for actions that may affect the environment, including biodiversity.

5. The Invasive Species Council, which coordinates efforts to prevent, control, and eradicate invasive species that threaten native biodiversity.

Overall, these regulations and initiatives aim to safeguard Hawaii’s unique flora and fauna, promote sustainable resource management, and ensure the long-term viability of the state’s biodiversity.

10. How does Hawaii promote sustainable transportation practices through its regulations?

Hawaii promotes sustainable transportation practices through a variety of regulations aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting alternative forms of transportation. Some key ways in which Hawaii achieves this include:

1. Electric Vehicle Incentives: Hawaii offers various incentives to promote the adoption of electric vehicles, including rebates for electric vehicle purchases, reduced registration fees, and access to high-occupancy vehicle lanes.

2. Clean Energy Goals: Hawaii has established ambitious clean energy goals, such as aiming for 100% renewable energy by 2045. This motivates the transportation sector to transition towards electric vehicles powered by renewable energy sources.

3. Complete Streets Policies: Many counties in Hawaii have adopted Complete Streets policies, which prioritize the design and implementation of streets that are safe and accessible for all users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and public transit riders.

4. Public Transit Initiatives: The state of Hawaii provides funding and support for public transit initiatives, including bus services and commuter rail projects, to reduce the reliance on personal vehicles and promote sustainable transportation options.

5. Land Use Planning: Hawaii’s land use planning regulations prioritize transit-oriented development and mixed-use communities, which help reduce the need for long commutes and encourage walking, cycling, and the use of public transportation.

Overall, Hawaii’s regulations focus on promoting sustainable transportation practices by incentivizing the use of electric vehicles, setting clean energy goals, implementing Complete Streets policies, supporting public transit initiatives, and incorporating sustainable land use planning strategies.

11. What are the regulations pertaining to sustainable agriculture and food production in Hawaii?

1. In Hawaii, sustainable agriculture and food production are regulated by various laws and policies aimed at preserving the environment and promoting sustainable practices. One key regulation is the Sustainable Agriculture Act, which encourages the development of sustainable farming techniques and practices that minimize environmental impact. This act promotes the use of organic farming methods, conservation tillage, and integrated pest management to reduce the use of potentially harmful chemicals.

2. Another important regulation in Hawaii is the Agricultural Water Use and Development Plan, which requires farmers to carefully manage their water usage to ensure sustainable water resources for agriculture. This plan includes measures to promote efficient irrigation techniques, water recycling, and rainwater harvesting to minimize water wastage and protect water quality.

3. The Hawaii Department of Agriculture also implements regulations and programs to support sustainable agriculture, such as the Organic Certification Program, which certifies organic farmers according to national standards. Additionally, the Department promotes the use of locally sourced and sustainable food through initiatives like the Farm to School Program, which connects schools with local farmers to encourage the consumption of fresh, local produce.

Overall, Hawaii has a comprehensive framework of regulations and programs in place to promote sustainable agriculture and food production, with a focus on environmental conservation and resource efficiency. Compliance with these regulations is essential for farmers and food producers in Hawaii to contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly food system.

12. How does Hawaii regulate sustainable forestry practices and land use?

Hawaii regulates sustainable forestry practices and land use through a combination of state laws, regulations, and policies designed to protect and manage the state’s unique ecosystems and natural resources. To specifically address sustainable forestry practices and land use, the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) plays a crucial role in overseeing the management of forest lands.

1. The DLNR implements the Hawaii Forest Stewardship Program, which encourages landowners to voluntarily manage their forests sustainably through technical assistance, incentives, and recognition.

2. The DLNR also administers the Forest Legacy Program, which aims to protect important forest lands through conservation easements and acquisitions.

3. Additionally, the Hawaii Department of Agriculture regulates forestry practices through the Forest Stewardship Program, which sets standards for sustainable management and certification of forest lands.

4. Hawaii’s environmental regulations, including the Environmental Impact Statement process, require developers to assess and mitigate the environmental impacts of land use projects, including forestry activities.

5. The State Land Use Commission designates important agricultural and conservation lands, providing a framework for sustainable land use planning and development.

By implementing these various programs and regulations, Hawaii aims to promote sustainable forestry practices and land use while preserving the state’s natural resources for future generations.

13. What are the coastal management regulations in Hawaii to promote environmental sustainability?

In Hawaii, coastal management regulations are in place to promote environmental sustainability and protect the state’s fragile marine ecosystems. Some key regulations include:

1. Hawaii Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA): Enacted in 1977, this act established the Hawaii Coastal Zone Management Program, which aims to balance development activities with the conservation and management of coastal resources.

2. Special Management Area (SMA): Areas along the coast designated as SMAs are subject to more stringent regulations to ensure that development activities do not harm coastal ecosystems or natural resources. Permits are required for any development within designated SMA boundaries.

3. Clean Water Act (CWA): The CWA prohibits the discharge of pollutants into navigable waters, including Hawaii’s coastal waters. This regulation helps to maintain water quality and protect marine life along the coast.

4. Endangered Species Act (ESA): Protections under the ESA extend to endangered and threatened species that inhabit Hawaii’s coastlines, such as the Hawaiian monk seal and green sea turtle. Development activities must comply with regulations to minimize impacts on these species.

5. Coral Reef Protection Act: Hawaii has specific regulations in place to protect its coral reefs, which are vital to the state’s coastal ecosystems. Activities that may harm coral reefs, such as dredging or anchoring, are closely regulated to prevent damage.

Overall, these coastal management regulations in Hawaii aim to strike a balance between development and conservation, promoting environmental sustainability along the state’s coastlines. Compliance with these regulations is key to ensuring the long-term health and resilience of Hawaii’s coastal ecosystems.

14. How does Hawaii address environmental justice and equitable access to resources in its regulations?

In Hawaii, environmental justice and equitable access to resources are addressed through a combination of regulations and policies aimed at ensuring fair treatment and involvement of all individuals, regardless of income, race, or ethnicity, in environmental decision-making processes. Some key ways in which Hawaii tackles these issues include:

1. Community Engagement: Hawaii’s regulations often require meaningful engagement with communities, especially those that are disproportionately impacted by environmental issues. This involvement allows local residents to voice their concerns and have a say in the decision-making process.

2. Environmental Impact Assessments: Hawaii requires developers to conduct thorough environmental impact assessments before proceeding with projects that could potentially harm the environment or local communities. This helps identify potential risks and allows for mitigation measures to be put in place.

3. Environmental Justice Policies: Hawaii has specific policies in place to address environmental justice, such as Executive Orders that prioritize the consideration of environmental justice and equity in all state actions and decision-making processes.

4. Access to Clean Water and Air: Hawaii has stringent regulations in place to protect water quality and air quality, ensuring that all communities have access to clean and safe drinking water and air free from pollutants.

5. Renewable Energy Initiatives: Hawaii is a leader in renewable energy initiatives, aiming to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate the impacts of climate change. These initiatives often prioritize disadvantaged communities to ensure they have access to clean and sustainable energy sources.

By incorporating these measures into its regulations, Hawaii is working towards achieving environmental justice and equitable access to resources for all its residents.

15. What are the regulatory measures in place to protect marine ecosystems in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, there are several regulatory measures in place to protect marine ecosystems. Some of the key regulations include:

1. Marine Life Conservation Districts: Hawaii has established a network of Marine Life Conservation Districts (MLCDs) to protect and preserve marine resources. These districts have specific rules and regulations to minimize human impact on sensitive marine ecosystems.

2. Protected Species: Hawaii has strict regulations in place to protect endangered and threatened marine species, such as the Hawaiian monk seal, green sea turtle, and humpback whale. These regulations include restrictions on fishing, boat traffic, and other activities that may harm these species.

3. Fishing Regulations: Hawaii has fishing regulations that govern when, where, and how fishing can take place in order to prevent overfishing and protect marine biodiversity. These regulations include size limits, bag limits, and fishing seasons for certain species.

4. Marine Debris: Hawaii has laws and regulations aimed at reducing marine debris and pollution in its waters. These regulations include bans on single-use plastics, restrictions on fishing gear that can entangle marine life, and coastal cleanup initiatives.

5. Marine Protected Areas: Hawaii has established Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) to conserve marine ecosystems and promote sustainable resource management. These areas have restrictions on fishing and other activities to allow marine ecosystems to recover and thrive.

Overall, Hawaii has a comprehensive set of regulatory measures in place to protect its marine ecosystems and promote environmental sustainability. These regulations play a crucial role in preserving Hawaii’s rich marine biodiversity and ensuring the long-term health of its oceans.

16. How does Hawaii regulate the use of pesticides and chemicals to promote environmental sustainability?

1. Hawaii regulates the use of pesticides and chemicals through a combination of state laws and regulations aimed at promoting environmental sustainability.
2. The Hawaii Department of Agriculture implements and enforces these regulations to ensure the safe and responsible use of pesticides and chemicals across the state.
3. One key regulation is the Restricted Use Pesticides (RUP) program, which requires individuals and businesses to obtain a license to purchase and apply certain types of pesticides that pose a higher risk to human health or the environment.
4. The state also has specific rules for the application of pesticides near water bodies to prevent water pollution and protect aquatic ecosystems.
5. Furthermore, Hawaii has established buffer zones and setback requirements to minimize the potential for pesticide drift onto neighboring properties or sensitive areas.
6. The state regularly monitors pesticide use through reporting requirements and conducts inspections to ensure compliance with regulations.
7. In addition to pesticides, Hawaii also regulates the use of other chemicals through laws such as the Hazardous Waste Law and the Clean Water Act to prevent pollution and protect natural resources.
8. Overall, Hawaii’s regulatory framework for pesticides and chemicals plays a crucial role in promoting environmental sustainability and protecting the unique ecosystems of the islands.

17. What are the regulations governing the protection of endangered species in Hawaii?

1. In Hawaii, the protection of endangered species is primarily governed by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Under this federal law, species listed as endangered or threatened are granted certain protections to prevent them from becoming extinct. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) are the agencies responsible for implementing and enforcing the ESA in Hawaii.

2. In addition to the federal regulations, Hawaii also has its own laws and regulations in place to protect endangered species within the state. The Hawaii Endangered Species Act provides additional protections for native species that are endangered or threatened specifically within the state’s jurisdiction.

3. The Division of Forestry and Wildlife under the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources plays a crucial role in managing and conserving endangered species in the region. They work collaboratively with the federal agencies to ensure the protection and recovery of endangered species in Hawaii.

4. Businesses and individuals operating in Hawaii must comply with these regulations to avoid penalties and ensure the conservation of the state’s unique and diverse ecosystem. Conservation efforts and partnerships with local communities are also essential in preserving Hawaii’s rich biodiversity and safeguarding the future of endangered species in the region.

18. How does Hawaii promote sustainable tourism practices through its environmental regulations?

Hawaii promotes sustainable tourism practices through several key environmental regulations:

1. Energy Efficiency Standards: Hawaii has implemented strict energy efficiency standards for hotels and other tourism-related establishments. This includes requirements for using energy-efficient appliances, lighting, and HVAC systems to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions.

2. Sustainable Tourism Certification: The state offers certification programs for eco-friendly hotels and tour operators that meet specific sustainability criteria. This helps to promote environmentally responsible practices within the tourism industry.

3. Waste Management: Hawaii has regulations in place to promote proper waste management practices, including recycling programs and restrictions on single-use plastics. This helps to reduce the impact of tourism-related waste on the environment.

4. Marine Protection: Hawaii has established marine protected areas and regulations to protect its fragile coral reefs and marine ecosystems. Tour operators are required to adhere to guidelines to minimize their impact on these sensitive environments.

Overall, Hawaii’s environmental regulations aim to balance the economic benefits of tourism with the need to protect the state’s natural resources for future generations. By promoting sustainable tourism practices, Hawaii can preserve its unique ecosystems and cultural heritage while continuing to attract visitors in a responsible manner.

19. What are the regulations regarding sustainable waste reduction and recycling in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, there are several regulations in place to promote sustainable waste reduction and recycling to protect the environment and natural resources. Here are some key regulations in Hawaii related to waste reduction and recycling:

1. Hawaii’s Statewide Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan sets out goals and strategies for managing solid waste sustainably, which includes reducing waste generation and increasing recycling rates.

2. The Hawaii Deposit Beverage Container Program requires a deposit on beverage containers and provides incentives for recycling, thereby reducing litter and promoting recycling efforts across the state.

3. The Hawaii Electronic Waste and Television Recycling Law mandates the proper recycling and disposal of electronic waste to prevent harmful substances from entering the environment and promotes the recovery of valuable materials from these devices.

4. The Mandatory Commercial Recycling Law in Hawaii requires businesses and other commercial entities to recycle specified materials, aiming to reduce waste sent to landfills and promote sustainable practices.

5. The State of Hawaii also has various county-level ordinances and programs that support waste reduction and recycling efforts, including curbside recycling programs, composting initiatives, and waste diversion targets.

Overall, Hawaii has established a comprehensive framework of regulations to promote sustainable waste reduction and recycling practices, with a focus on protecting the environment and promoting a circular economy.

20. How does Hawaii involve the community and stakeholders in the development and implementation of environmental sustainability regulations?

In Hawaii, community engagement and stakeholder involvement are crucial components of the development and implementation of environmental sustainability regulations. The state government recognizes the importance of engaging a diverse range of stakeholders to ensure that regulations are effective, feasible, and equitable.

1. Public hearings and meetings are held to allow community members and interested parties to provide input, feedback, and suggestions on proposed regulations. This input helps policymakers understand the needs and priorities of different stakeholders and incorporate their perspectives into the regulatory process.
2. Collaborative decision-making processes bring together government agencies, businesses, environmental organizations, community groups, and indigenous communities to work towards consensus on environmental sustainability issues. This collaborative approach fosters trust, transparency, and cooperation among stakeholders.
3. Environmental impact assessments and consultations are conducted to assess the potential impacts of proposed regulations on communities, ecosystems, and public health. These assessments provide valuable information for decision-making and help identify ways to minimize adverse impacts and maximize benefits.
4. Education and outreach initiatives are implemented to raise awareness about environmental sustainability issues, regulations, and opportunities for community involvement. These initiatives empower community members to take action, participate in decision-making processes, and contribute to the success of sustainability initiatives.

By involving the community and stakeholders in the development and implementation of environmental sustainability regulations, Hawaii ensures that regulations are informed by diverse perspectives, supported by relevant expertise, and responsive to the needs and concerns of all stakeholders.