Environmental

What is the 'Endangered Species Act' (ESA) and how does it affect Hawaii real estate development?

AA. An act protecting historical buildings from demolition
BB. A federal law protecting threatened and endangered species and their critical habitat, which can restrict development in areas inhabited by protected species✓ Correct
CC. A state Hawaii law protecting native plants in Conservation Districts
DD. An act protecting ancient Hawaiian burial sites from development

Explanation

The ESA prohibits 'taking' (harming) federally listed threatened or endangered species. Hawaii has the highest concentration of listed species in the US. Development in areas with protected species (Hawaiian monk seals, humpback whales, various native birds) may require biological assessments, mitigation measures, or may be precluded in critical habitats.

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