BIL 066 Draft 02 2024-2026 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Table 12. Climate Mitigation Challenges Climate mitigation in Hawaii County faces a range of challenges due to its unique geographic, socio- economic, and environmental contexts. Mitigation focuses on the root cause of climate change: heat -trapping greenhouse gases that are added to the atmosphere at a faster rate than the planet can absorb them. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach involving collaboration between government agencies,, the private sector, community groups, and other stakeholders. Investment in research, innovation, and education, as well as robust policy frameworks and financial mechanisms, are essential components of effective climate mitigation strategies. Geographic • Hawai'i depends heavily on imported fossil fuels for energy generation and transportation, Isolation & making the transition to renewable energy sources both crucial and challenging. Dependence on • Geographic isolation leads to supply chain vulnerability, resulting in higher costs and logistical Imports difficulties in obtaining renewable energy technologies and infrastructure materials. High Energy Costs • The cost of energy in Hawaii is among the highest in the country, which can be a barrier to implementing and sustaining renewable energy projects. • Increased temperatures associated with climate change places greater demand on energy systems. Tourism -Driven • The visitor industryis a significant contributor to the local economy, but also a substantial source Economy of carbon emissions, making balancing economic growth with sustainable practices difficult. Infrastructure • Material -making and building methods require a lot of energy, increasing the carbon footprint Limitations of infrastructure construction. • Aging energy infrastructure is inadequate and the need for upgrades to support renewable energy sources (e.g., solar, wind, and geothermal) requires substantial investment. • The grid's capacity to integrate intermittent renewable energy sources without compromising reliability is a technical challenge. Natural Disasters & • Susceptibility to natural disasters such as hurricanes, tsunamis, wildfires, and volcanic activity Climate can disrupt energy infrastructure and impede mitigation efforts. Vulnerability • Rising sea levels and increased frequency of extreme weather events pose risks to water resources, infrastructure, and communities. Biodiversity & • Efforts to expand renewable energy must consider the preservation of unique and diverse Ecosystem ecosystems, avoiding negative impacts on wildlife and natural habitats. Considerations • Deforestation and degradation of native ecosystems and open spaces reduce carbon sinks. Economic & Social • Ensuring that climate mitigation efforts are equitable and do not disproportionately affect Equity vulnerable communities is essential. Programs must be designed to include these populations in both the benefits and decision -making processes. • Engaging the public about the importance of climate mitigation and encouraging behavioral changes is crucial. Public resistance or apathy can slow down the adoption of necessary measures. Regulatory & Policy • Developing and enforcing effective policies that promote renewable energy, energy efficiency, Frameworks and sustainability practices while navigating political and bureaucratic hurdles can be challenging. • Coordinating between state and local governments, communities, and the private sector, is necessary for coherent and effective climate action. Financial • Securing funding for large-scale renewable energy projects and other mitigation initiatives can Constraints be difficult, especially in a small, isolated economy. • Balancing the need for affordable housing with the implementation of sustainable development practices requires innovative solutions that address the high costs of construction, land, and utilities while reducing carbon emissions and promoting resilience. 3.0 Addressing Climate Change for Island -Wide Health I County of Hawaii General Plan