The UH Better Tomorrow Speaker Series (BTSS) is pleased to announce a partnership with the Hawai‘i Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission to organize a series of educational events on climate mitigation and adaptation. The collection of events, titled “Hā O Ke Kai,” meaning “Breath of the Sea,” is paired with the Commission’s statewide conference series of the same name. It will coincide with planning for a strong Hawai‘i presence at the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference, or COP26.

“Hawai‘i has announced ambitious climate goals,” notes Suzanne Case, Chair of the Department of Land and Natural Resources, and co-Chair of the Climate Commission. “Now we are all really stepping up to get Hawai‘i climate ready. This series gives us all key information and connections.”

The climate commission and the Better Tomorrow Speaker Series have cooperated on several past events, including an online Earth Day forum featuring Governor David Ige, and public lectures and policy briefings by acclaimed author David Wallace Wells, author of The Uninhabitable Earth, who was also keynote speaker at the Commission’s statewide climate change conference in 2020.

“Our civilization, our Islands faces no greater challenge than climate change,” says UH Mānoa Provost Michael Bruno. “Developing actionable climate research that can play a role in protecting Hawai‘i’s economy, coastlines, natural environment, and health is a top priority for the University. We are pleased that we will be able to share work and ideas with the public through this series so generously supported by the state’s climate commission.”

The first event in this new series will feature renowned UCLA planning professor, Donald Shoup, who will address the power of parking policy to make our cities more sustainable, affordable, and livable. Titled “The High Cost of Free Parking,” this live online event will take place on August 18 at noon HST. It is open to the general public, and registrants can submit question in advance HERE.

To stay abreast of the Hā O Ke Kai collection, see the Commission’s website or check the Upcoming Events section of our website.