Mayor Kawakami signs Kaua‘i Climate Adaptation and Action Plan to strengthen island resilience
LĪHU‘E – On Wednesday, December 17, Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami signed the Kaua‘i Climate Adaptation and Action Plan (KCAAP), marking an important step in the County of Kaua‘i’s long-term work to prepare for climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The Kaua‘i Climate Adaptation and Action Plan is the County’s first comprehensive plan focused on climate change. It lays out clear strategies to help Kaua‘i respond to climate impacts, protect vulnerable communities, and reduce emissions, in line with the County’s General Plan.
“Climate change is not a future concern for Kaua‘i, it is something we are already experiencing,” said Mayor Kawakami. “This plan gives us a clear roadmap to protect our communities, infrastructure, and natural resources, while making smart decisions that will benefit future generations. Developed over four years and shaped by science and community input, the Climate Adaptation and Action Plan reflects our commitment to thoughtful and responsible climate leadership.”
The KCAAP was developed over four years and informed by both research and community feedback. Early work focused on identifying climate risks facing the island and understanding how those impacts affect people, places, and resources, especially communities that are most vulnerable. 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 Ka‘āina Hull, Planning Department Director. “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.”
The plan outlines 79 strategies and more than 240 specific actions for County departments to carry out. 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.
The KCAAP is designed to be flexible, allowing the County to take action now while adjusting over time as conditions, science, and community needs change. It also includes tools to help ensure equity is considered in decision-making, so that climate solutions prioritize those most affected by climate change and rising costs of living.
While the plan focuses on actions within County government, it also emphasizes working closely with state and federal agencies, schools, cultural practitioners, non-profit organizations, and community groups. Through partnerships, outreach, and education, the plan aims to support coordinated climate action across Kaua‘i.
The 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.
To read the plan, visit the Kaua‘i Climate Adaptation and Action Plan website.
To view photos from the signing event, visit the Kaua‘i Climate Adaptation and Action Plan photos.
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