Work

Climate Change in Hawaii and the United States-Affiliated Pacific Islands: A Call to Action for Environmental Public Health

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Hawaii and the U.S.-Affiliated Pacific Islands (USAPI) are facing a climate change crisis that threatens the health, safety, and well-being of Pacific Islander communities. This article provides an overview of the unique impacts of climate change on this often-overlooked region from an environmental public health perspective, as well as its vulnerabilities and resilience efforts. The article highlights the urgent need for action and the crucial role that environmental health professionals can play in partnering with Pacific Islander communities to build climate resilience. We conducted research and key informant interviews between September 2023 and June 2024, which provided valuable insights into the lived experiences and perspectives of local leaders, environmental health practitioners, and community members who are grappling with the effects of climate change. By bringing together scientific data, case studies, and perspectives from local leaders and storytellers, this article paints a holistic picture of the complex realities of climate change in Hawaii and the USAPI. This nuanced understanding is essential for informing effective, equitable, and culturally appropriate interventions to protect the health and well-being of Pacific Islander communities in the face of the climate crisis.

Source: Journal of environmental health

DOI: 10.70387/001c.137192

Authors: Gina Bare, Emma Erwin, David T. Dyjack

Institution: National Environmental Health Association

Language: English

Topic: Climate Change and Health Impacts

Subfield: Health, Toxicology and Mutagenesis

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Climate action, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Funder: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention