Connecting the Dots: Maui's Fires, Climate Change and Public Policy

The Green Party of the US is deeply saddened by the devastating wildfires that have ravaged Maui. We extend our condolences to our friends and the families of those who have lost loved ones, and we offer our support to those who have been displaced from their homes.

Green Party of the United States
www.gp.org

For Immediate Release
August 21, 2023

CONTACTS:
Gregg Jocoy, Media Committee Co-chair, [email protected] | 202-804-2758
Gloria Mattera, Media Committee Co-chair, [email protected] | 202-804-2758
David Mulinix, Green Party of Hawai’i, Co-chair, [email protected]
Sue RobertsEmery, Green Party of Hawai’i, Co-chair, [email protected]

Climate change is one of several factors that contributed to these fires. The area in Maui has been in a drought for a number of years, and the fires were fanned by extremely high winds from a nearby hurricane. Climate scientists say that climate change provides additional energy to weather events, increasing their severity.

The burning of fossil fuels is releasing greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere, which are trapping heat and causing the planet to warm. The Green Party of the US and Hawai’i are committed to taking action to address climate change. We support policies such as investing in renewable energy, reducing deforestation, and improving energy efficiency.

We also call attention to the real estate vultures who consistently seek to exploit extreme weather disasters to buy up land and displace low-income individuals and families. The fires in Maui serve as a reminder that climate change respects no boundaries. In the spirit of World Humanitarian Day that took place on August 19, we must prioritize the well-being of all people in the face of environmental emergencies.

“The response from the government has been less than adequate, with President Biden's approval of a mere $2,317 per household, which is less than one month's rent in Maui. This sum falls far short of addressing the comprehensive needs of those who have lost their homes, belongings, and even loved ones. “It is shameful that President Joe Biden has asked for a military budget of $813 billion, but is only offering $3.8 million in aid to Hawai’i households, who have lost everything,” said David Mulinix, Co-chair Green Party of Hawai’i, “Biden prioritizing weapons for Ukraine is a theft from those who are most desperately in need on Maui. We can only hope that Hawai’i's congressional delegation will impress upon Biden that providing for the needs of the people of Maui must take precedence over weapons for a war that provides no security for the citizens of the United States.”

We urge the government to take steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to improve wildfire prevention and response. We also urge the public to do their part by reducing their carbon footprint.

Together, we can build a more sustainable future for Maui, the Hawai’ian islands and for the planet.