IN THE NEWS: 5 Questions: Chris Benjamin, chair of governor’s Climate Advisory Team

By Jamm Aquino for the Honolulu Star-Advertiser

1. Why did you accept the role of CAT chair?

I’m very concerned about the threats that natural disasters pose. That’s why I am so encouraged that the Governor wants to give the issue the attention of this committee and its experts, in order to develop concrete solutions. Hawai‘i is particularly vulnerable to climate change, and I’ve devoted my time since retirement to addressing its risks.

We can’t look to State government to eliminate the risks of natural disasters alone. On the contrary, most of the solutions are going to come from communities working together and from the many public- and private-sector organizations that already are doing great work in this area. But the State can absolutely help catalyze, coordinate and support these efforts, and I applaud the Governor and the legislature for recognizing the critical importance of supportive legislation.

Click here to read the full story in the September 6 Honolulu Star-Advertiser