In a proactive move to address the escalating challenges of climate change, ʻĀina Momona, a prominent Native Hawaiian-led nonprofit, is actively seeking community input to shape a comprehensive framework for climate solutions. The organization, deeply rooted in land and ocean stewardship, has launched a public survey, inviting residents across Hawaiʻi to share their insights and perspectives on the matter.
This initiative underscores the growing importance of community-led approaches in addressing environmental concerns, particularly as climate change continues to pose significant threats to Hawaiʻi's unique ecosystems and its economy. As highlighted by ʻĀina Momona, their mission focuses on achieving environmental health and sustainability through community involvement, restoring social justice and Hawaiian sovereignty. This includes the development of resilient strategies that can withstand future climate pressures.
The project echoes the broader goals that NOAA supports through initiatives such as "ʻĀina Restoration through Community Governance to Advance Climate Resilience in the Hawaiian Islands." This project focuses on a reinvigorated moku system, a Native Hawaiian framework for traditional land tenure and contemporary biocultural stewardship, to build a resilient future for the Hawaiian Islands. Activities include conserving and restoring forests, enhancing community-based coastal stewardship, and restoring marine abundance. NOAA demonstrates the commitment of agencies to support local solutions.
For Hawaii's entrepreneurs and investors, this community-driven approach presents both challenges and opportunities. Businesses will need to adapt to evolving environmental regulations and consider investments that align with sustainability goals. The input gathered through the survey could influence future policy decisions, potentially creating new market opportunities and incentives for green initiatives and eco-tourism. This may align with the vision that “true waiwai (wealth) is not measured in money but in the abundance of healthy land and thriving people,” as stated by ʻĀina Momona.
The survey results will be critical in shaping strategies that protect natural resources, support local communities, and foster sustainable economic development. This will also give local businesses and investors an advanced insight into the future of Hawaii's climate solutions.
