UH experts advise state on steps to prevent climate disasters

By UH News

Strategies to enhance Hawaiʻi’s resilience to climate-related disasters are the focus of a new comprehensive policy paper presented by members of the state’s Climate Advisory Team (CAT), who all have ties to the University of Hawaiʻi. The paper, which was released on January 7, emphasizes immediate actions and long-term policies to help prepare the state for future challenges.

According to a statewide survey of more than 600 Hawaiʻi residents conducted by CAT in October 2024, 71% of respondents believe that what happened in Lahaina, Maui could happen in their community, but only 39% think their community is prepared to withstand a natural disaster.

One of the paper’s top recommendations is to establish a permanent resilience office to provide the necessary leadership and coordination of a strategic, integrated approach to improve Hawaiʻi’s resilience and preparedness for climate-related disasters.

Click here to read the full article in the January 14 UH News.