‘A clear roadmap’: Mayor Kawakami signs Kaua‘i Climate Adaptation and Action Plan

Kaua‘i County Mayor Derek Kawakami on Wednesday (Dec. 17) signed the Kaua‘i Climate Adaptation and Action Plan, marking an important step in the county’s long-term work to prepare for climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The Kaua‘i Climate Adaptation and Action Plan is Kaua‘i County’s first comprehensive strategy focused on climate change.

It lays out clear strategies to help the Garden Isle respond to climate impacts, protect vulnerable communities and reduce emissions — in line with the Kaua‘i County General Plan.

“Climate change is not a future concern for Kaua‘i, it is something we are already experiencing,” said Kawakami in a release following a signing ceremony Wednesday. “This plan gives us a clear roadmap to protect our communities, infrastructure and natural resources while making smart decisions that will benefit future generations.”

Kawakami added that the plan — developed through 4 years and shaped by science and community input — reflects the county’s commitment to thoughtful and responsible climate leadership.

Early work focused on identifying climate risks facing the island and understanding how those impacts affect people, places and resources, especially the most vulnerable communities.

The plan was shaped through public workshops, talk story sessions, surveys, classroom activities, a youth summit and guidance from a Technical Advisory Group.

“The Climate Adaptation and Action Plan provides a strong, science-based guide for how Kaua‘i plans for growth, infrastructure and environmental protection as our climate changes,” said Kaua‘i County Planning Department Director Ka‘āina Hull in the county’s release. “By considering climate impacts in policies and long-term planning, this plan helps ensure Kaua‘i is better prepared for today’s challenges and those we know are coming, while supporting resilient and equitable communities.”

Nearly 80 strategies and more than 240 specific actions for county departments to carry out are outlined in the plan. It is designed to be action-focused, with climate considerations built into policies, programs, capital improvement planning and annual work plans.

The plan also identifies potential funding options to help support climate-ready projects.

It is designed to be flexible, allowing the county to take action now while adjusting with time as conditions, science and community needs change.

The Kaua‘i Climate Adaptation and Action Plan also includes tools to help ensure equity is considered in decision-making, so climate solutions prioritize those most affected by climate change and increasing costs of living.

It also emphasizes working closely with state and federal agencies, schools, cultural practitioners, nonprofit organizations and community groups. Through partnerships, outreach and education, the plan aims to support coordinated climate action around Kaua‘i.

Signing of the Kaua‘i Climate Adaptation and Action Plan reflects the county’s continued commitment to building island resilience, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and taking practical steps to protect Kaua‘i now and in the future.

Visit the Kaua‘i Climate Adaptation and Action Plan website to read the plan and find additional information.