HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0279.005 2022-2024 P/ GOER&
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From: Taofeeq Ashiru
Sent: Monday, May 15, 2023 11:51 AM ti -,
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Re: Support of County of Hawai'i Bill No.48 on "Office of Sustainability, imate,
Equity, and Resilience
I am writing to support the setting up of the Office of Sustainability, Climate, Equity, and Resilience in the
County of Hawai'i as proposed in bill no 48, based on the following:
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1. The office will act as the focal point to help collate concerns and required actions to help focus
necessary practical efforts to implement issues concerning sustainability, climate, equity, and resilience
in the County of Hawai'i.
2. The office will be pivotal in raising awareness by utilizing various platforms and channels to raise
awareness about the importance of sustainability, climate action, equity, and resilience in the County
of Hawaii. Also, the office will help engage the local communities, organizations, and stakeholders to
foster a broader understanding of the bill's objectives.
3. The mobilization of public support will be easier through the encouragement of community members
to voice their support for sustainability, climate, equity, and resilience-related issues.
4. The set-up has potential economic benefits resulting from implementing sustainable practices by
encouraging investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency, sustainable agriculture, and other
initiatives to create jobs, attract businesses, and improve the local economy.
5. The activities of the bill will encourage environmental protection, thereby protecting Hawai'i's unique
natural environment, including its oceans, forests, and biodiversity. The office of sustainability, climate,
equity, and resilience can help address climate change impacts, reduce carbon emissions, preserve
natural resources, and safeguard g the local ecosystem.
6. The office's mandate will help address social and environmental justice issues by ensuring that
sustainability and resilience efforts benefit all communities, particularly those most vulnerable to the
impacts of climate change.
7. The office will enhance collaboration with stakeholders and build partnerships with relevant
organizations, businesses, academic institutions, and community groups with similar goals. Such
collaborative efforts can provide a network of support during the implementation phases of the
various initiatives of the body.
8. The office will become a focal point for meaningful engagement with policymakers by sharing the
concerns of various stakeholders using a data-driven approach, research, and demonstration of similar
initiatives that have worked in other regions.
9. Establishing the office will encourage public participation, allowing for transparency, public input, and
accountability, ensuring that the community's voices are heard and integrated into decision-making.
Regards,
Comm. Nom. irri'9
Dr. Taofeeq Ashiru Ref. To: V (1t0�
1 Ref. Date MAY 1 6 2023