As 2025 came to a close, a report published by the Council on Strategic Risks underscored the multifaceted climate security threats facing Hawaii. The analysis detailed how climate change could significantly endanger both the state's civilian communities and the military's operations within the islands. Further exacerbating these risks, the report highlighted the detrimental effects of budget cuts to programs responsible for monitoring weather patterns and other critical environmental factors, leaving both sectors more susceptible to climate-related disasters.
The implications of these findings are substantial for Hawaii's business environment. Investors and entrepreneurs must now consider climate risks more explicitly in their strategic planning. The projected intensification of extreme weather events, including more frequent and severe storms, rising sea levels, and the increased risk of wildfires, directly threatens the tourism and hospitality industries, which are significant pillars of the state's economy. The potential for disruption to infrastructure, like transportation and utilities, adds further complexity, potentially increasing operational costs and decreasing productivity.
The report's analysis also extends to the military's presence in Hawaii, a crucial economic and strategic component. The Council on Strategic Risks' assessment notes that military installations and operations could face extensive risks from sea level rise and extreme weather events. The convergence of these factors - climate change, cuts to environmental monitoring, and the strategic importance of Hawaii – create compelling risks. The 2025 Annual Threat Assessment of the U.S. Intelligence Community touches upon broader global threats to national security that could be amplified by climate change.
Furthermore, the report's emphasis on diminished environmental monitoring capabilities suggests a critical need for policy adjustments. The findings point to strategic investment in resilience, adaptation, and mitigation strategies as essential for sustained economic stability. This involves fostering collaboration between government agencies, private sector businesses, and community organizations to develop and implement proactive measures. Hawaii.gov provides an overview of various reports on climate adaptation initiatives, which can inform policy decisions and guide investment strategies.
The convergence of climate change impacts and reduced monitoring capabilities demands urgent attention from Hawaii's leadership. Addressing these challenges will require a comprehensive approach, integrating climate risk into all facets of business planning and public policy.
