HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0771.480 2020-2022 Qil IL7r
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From: Jaime
Sent: Friday, June 10, 2022 1:31 PM ZOU JUN : 38
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Written testimony for bill 167
Aloha Cham David and County Council members,
My name is Jaime Funakoshi. Z am in Strong Support of Bill 167 I was born and raised in Kona and grew up
surfing here. I've seen the deterioration of our reefs due to a multitude of factors. Sunscreen is a major element in
contributing to the degradation of our reefs which in turn will directly affect many in our community, our way of
life, a major food source, and even tourism.
I've seen an ocean full of life; days where it seems the whole ocean around me is moving above and below water.
The reef used to be colorful and thriving when I was younger, now it's brown and dead with very few living coral
here and there. (I saw it today as I swam to the drop off and along the coast)Something needs to be done to protect
the healthy reef we have left and promote regrowth.
Coral reef's protect our island's coastal infrastructure, beaches, and community. The chemical compounds
contained in non-mineral sunscreen are scientifically proven to inhibit coral growth and degrade the integrity of
our reefs. The purpose of this ordinance is to preserve the health, safety, and welfare of humans and the
environment, by allowing only mineral sunscreens to be provided, sold, offered for sale, or distributed in the
County. We can start to protect our ocean and way of life with Bill 167.
Mahalo nui for your time,
Jaime Funakoshi
Ps. Over-tourism is another major contributing factor in reef degradation but that is a conversation for another
day.
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