The Hawaii 2050 Sustainability Task Force today released its 2050 Sustainability Plan, which organizers said is the first long-range plan for the future of the state since the Hawaii 2000 Task Force report was released in the early 1970s.

The current plan began two years ago when the Sustainability Task Force went to people and communities on every island and asked, "What is important in creating a sustainable future for Hawaii?" a news release said.

"Overwhelmingly, the response was 'balance and leadership,'" said state Sen. Russell Kokubun, chair of the Sustainability Task Force, in the news release. "The vast majority wants parity among a diversified economy to support us, strong communities and a healthy environment."

More than 11,500 residents participated in the public outreach process.

The top two intermediate steps in the Sustainability Plan are to increase affordable housing and to strengthen public education.

The Hawaii 2050 Plan can be viewed and downloaded at www.hawaii2050.org.

The Hawaii 2050 Sustainability Task Force was established by the state Legislature.