HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0279.006 2022-2024 P/C-0EAG
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co CLIMATE PROTECTORS COALITION
To: Honorable Members of the Government Operations and External Affairs
Committee
From: Hawaii Reef and Ocean Coalition and Climate Protectors Hawai'i (by Ted
Bohlen)
Aloha Members of the Government Operations and External Affairs Committee!
The Hawai'i Reef and Ocean Coalition (HIROC) is a group of scientists, educators,
filmmakers and environmental advocates who have been working since 2017 to
protect Hawaii's coral reefs and ocean.
The Climate Protectors Hawai'i seek to educate and engage the local community
in climate change action, to help Hawaii show the world the way back to a safe
and stable climate.
The Hawaii Reef and Ocean Coalition and Climate Protectors Hawai`i STRONGLY
SUPPORT the vision of Bill 48 and urge the Government Operations and External
Affairs Committee to support it and recommend its passage to the Hawaii
County Council!
Hawai'i Island faces grave threats to its environment and protective coral reefs
from the climate crisis. This bill proposes the creation of the Office of
Sustainability, Climate, Equity, and Resilience (OSCER) in Hawaii County. OSCERR is
Comm. No. L� ` 'CO
Ref. To: P l CIdM
Ref. nate MAY 1 6 2023
needed to help Hawai'i County address the challenges posed by climate change,
promote sustainability, and build resilience. This office could be a key catalyst for
positive change, encouraging Hawai'i County adopt changes that benefit the
environment, economy, and social well-being of the whole community.
Bill 48 appropriately focuses on equity and environmental justice. It emphasizes
the consideration of impacts on lower- and middle-income individuals, historically
marginalized groups, and aims to ensure that the benefits of the office's programs
reach all residents of Hawai'i County.
The elevation of OSCER to the cabinet level will enable coordinated action both
internally and externally. By providing the office with the necessary authority and
resources, Hawai'i County can achieve collaboration and synergy among different
departments and agencies. This integrated approach is vital for effective policy
implementation and achieving meaningful results in sustainability and resilience.
Furthermore, the establishment of a Climate Action Revolving Fund, as proposed
in the bill, will support policies and programs that align with the objectives of
OSCER while generating cost savings for the County. By reinvesting these savings
into new climate action programs, Hawai'i County can create a self-sustaining
cycle of progress and ensure the long-term success of its sustainability efforts.
The OSCER would emphasize collaboration and stakeholder communication to
achieve transformative change. OSCER would serve as a coordinating and
administrative entity, enabling Hawai'i County to maximize impact and effectively
address the implementation gaps in its sustainability, climate, and resilience
plans.
In conclusion, the Hawai'i Reef and Ocean Coalition and Climate Protectors
Hawai'i believe that passing Bill 48 and establishing the OSCER will help Hawai'i
County lead in dealing with the challenges faced in climate change adaptation,
and enhance sustainability and community resilience by taking proactive
measures to protect our environment and promote equity.
The Hawaii Reef and Ocean Coalition and Climate Protectors Hawai'i urge the
Government Operations and External Affairs Committee to support Bill 48 and
recommend its passage to the Hawai'i County Council. Hawai'i County should
embrace this opportunity to safeguard its future, preserve its natural resources,
and create a thriving, sustainable community for future generations.
Mahalo!
Hawai'i Reef and Ocean Coalition and Climate Protectors Hawai'i (by Ted Bohlen)
Ted Bohlen
1942 Judd Hillside Rd.
Honolulu, Hawaii 96822
Tbohl8@yahoo.com
(808) 294-3689