The Center for Sustainable Coastal Tourism was established in 2009 as a university collaboration between the School of Ocean and Earth Sciences and Technology, the College of Social Sciences, School of Travel Industry Management, Hawai‘inuiakea School of Hawaiian Knowledge, and the School of Architecture. In partnership with local businesses, government, and the community, the center conducts research, education, and outreach on Hawai‘i tourism and the various economic, cultural and environmental impacts of the visitor industry. Signature projects of the Center of Excellence for Sustainable Coastal Tourism serve to improve the quality of Hawai‘i’s environment, restore habitats and ecosystems, and reduce the energy and water needed to support the tourism industry resulting in positive impacts on both Hawai‘i’s economy and quality of life for local residents.