East Molokai Community Unites Against Climate Change and Sea Level Rise

Under the warm glow of the Maui County meeting room, voices rose in a collective call for action against the pressing threats of climate change and sea level rise. Community members gathered to discuss the newly unveiled adaptation and resiliency master plan, a crucial initiative aimed at uniting efforts across the islands, particularly in East Molokai, where the impacts of environmental change are felt most acutely.

Kupa Aina, a resident of East Molokai, passionately shared how this plan has fostered a sense of community among those living along the coastlines. “We’ve been working in silos,” Aina noted, emphasizing the need for collaboration. The plan has sparked meaningful conversations, allowing residents to come together and share their experiences and concerns about the changing environment.

At the heart of these discussions are the monthly gatherings of Kupuna, the elders of the community, who bring wisdom and urgency to the table. With climate change topping their list of worries, these meetings have become a vital space for dialogue and action. Aina recounted how his father, in his eighties, has taken personal responsibility for the land, dismantling man-made structures and ensuring that waste does not reach the ocean. This grassroots effort has inspired neighbors to engage in similar actions, fostering a spirit of cooperation and shared responsibility.

The planning process, led by dedicated individuals like Keani, Jan, Mahina, Harmony, Katie, and Heather, has been instrumental in encouraging community involvement. Their efforts have not only highlighted the challenges faced by East Molokai but also illuminated pathways for collective action. “We’re all in this together,” Aina affirmed, capturing the essence of the community’s resolve.

As the meeting concluded, the atmosphere was charged with hope and determination. The master plan represents more than just a strategy; it embodies the spirit of a community ready to confront the realities of climate change head-on, united in their commitment to protect their home for future generations.