Patricia, astronomy is a clean industry; in fact TMT will be a zero waste facility.  TMT has raised the bench mark when it comes to conservation, every criteria was met.  The "building" was reconfigured and made even smaller to meet and exceed requirements.  TMT is not a "monster", it will be one of the most advanced telescopes that will allow the world to further explore our universe.  Hawaiian students have been beneficiaries of TMT's Think Fund scholarship program and the Akamai Workforce program.  We don't have many opportunities like this in Hawaii.  You should know that the spin offs from astronomy help us to better understand pollution and how to fight it.  Jobs, education, careers are what Hawaii's future generations need.