BIL 048 Draft 02 2022-2024 - Laserfiche WebLink

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"Adaptation" means the process of observing changes in social, environmental, and economic systems and adjusting operations to meet present and anticipated future needs. "Climate change impacts" means the effect on social, economic, and environmental systems that are caused by human-driven climate change including, but not limited to, increases in natural disaster severity, unstable and extreme weather patterns, and loss of native ecosystems. "Environmental justice" means that all people receive equal protection from environmental hazards and access to a healthy and sustainable environment, are provided fair treatment and meaningful involvement in the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies, and that the benefits and burdens of environmental policies and practices are distributed fairly regardless of race, color, national origin, or income. "Equity" means that the cumulative impacts on lower- and middle-income individuals and historically marginalized groups are considered during decision making. "Mitigation"means actions and strategies aimed at reducing the risk of harm and damage to human communities, natural ecosystems, infrastructure, and the economy due to the impacts of climate change. These actions and strategies shall include but not be limited to reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and removal of greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. "Office" means the office of sustainability, climate, equity, and resilience. "Sustainability"means a balanced approach of managing present day environmental, social, and economic needs and maintaining a healthy lifecycle to fulfill the needs of current populations that does not compromise the needs of future generations, and ensures harmony between economic growth, environmental systems, and social well-being. "Resilience"means the ability to withstand social, environmental, and economic shocks and stressors with minimal human, environmental, and economic costs, risks, and damages. Section 37-1-4. Authority to adopt rules and regulations. The sustainability administrator is authorized to adopt rules and regulations as the office deems necessary for the administration of the conduct of the office's business. Rules shall be adopted pursuant to chapter 91, Hawaii Revised Statutes. Article 2. Office of Sustainability, Climate, Equity, and Resilience. Section 37-2-21. Duties of the office of sustainability, climate, equity, and resilience. (a) Policy and program development. The office shall: (1) Establish policies and programs to promote sustainability, mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, and build the County's resilience to the impacts of climate change and other natural and human caused hazards. These policies and programs shall be developed after consideration of resources such as the County's general plan, County community development plans, County multi-hazard mitigation plan and County 3