HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0354.009 2024-2026P ICRCoC
coomm-(
From:
Nohea Ka'awa
o
Sent:
Monday, July 7, 2025 12:04 PM
p.
To:
Council Testimony
o
Cl
Subject:
Opposition of Waika Consulting and the initiative to promote and push peotheZ
energy across Hawaii Island, especially in the Ka'u District
v
o�
,,,mot►
��c�
Aloha mai kakou,
K
ov
� Fa'7
My name is Nohea Ka`awa, and I am submittingthis testimony in strong opposition of Waika Consulting
and the initiative to promote and push geothermal energy across Hawaii Island, especially in the Ka`u
District. Ka`u is one of the last intact and culturally vibrant rural communities on Hawaii Island. Our
lands, from the upland forests to the coastal fisheries, have sustained generations of Kanaka Maoli and
Local families. Geothermal development in Ka`u threatens not only our environment and health but also
the integrity of our cultural practices, sense of place, and community wellbeing.
First, geothermal development poses significant risks to our health and environment. The release of
hydrogen sulfide gas, known for its toxic effects on respiratory systems and its foul smell of rotten eggs,
would compromise air -quality for residents, kupuna, and keiki. Past experiences in Puna demonstrate
the potential for long-term health impacts, contaminated groundwater, noise pollution, and irreversible
harm to native ecosystems.
Second, Ka`u is a wahi pans, a storied and sacred landscape. Our district holds countless cultural sites,
burials, and traditional gathering areas. Geothermal development disregards our ancestral connection to
Pelehonuamea, the living deity embodied in volcanic activity. To exploit Pele for industrial profit is a
direct desecration of our cultural beliefs and a violation of our spiritual relationship with our `Aina.
Third, Ka`u does not benefit from such extractive projects. Historically, outside corporations profit while
local residents bear the environmental and health costs. Our community is already burdened by
proposed developments that threaten our subsistence lifestyle, food security, and access to lands and
waters that have fed our families for generations.
Finally, renewable energy alternatives exist that do not desecrate sacred lands or endanger human
health. Rooftop solar, distributed microgrids, and conservation strategies can meet Hawai`i's energy
needs without sacrificing Ka`u.
I urge decision -makers to honor our community's voice. We say no to geothermal in Ka`u and on Hawaii
Island. We demand energy justice rooted in aloha `aina along with solutions that protect the health of our
people, the sanctity of our cultural sites, and the integrity of our environment for future generations.
Mahalo nui for the opportunity to submit this testimony.
Nohea Ka`awa
Comm. o �v
,Ref. To: ' C/
Ref. note