The effects of climate change in the islands go far beyond increased temperatures and rising sea levels.
Increase in temperature-related death and diseases as well as human illnesses spread by insects.
Land degradation and desertification will impact soils, vegetation and the terrestrial ecosystems.
Warmer waters will negatively impact fish populations and result in less fish near the islands.
Less water will be stored in aquifers due to erosion in our mountains, affecting our freshwater supply.
Without our beaches, healthy reefs and reliable infrastructure, Hawaii will see fewer visitors and a weaker economy.
The already endangered plants and animals native to the Hawaiian Islands will die off.
As ocean temperatures rise the coral that protects our shoreline will suffer mass bleaching and mortality.
Rising sea levels will exacerbate shoreline erosion, coastal flooding and water pollution.
Reporter: Nathan Eagle
Photography: Nathan Eagle, Cory Lum
Multimedia: April Estrellon, Ku‘u Kauanoe, Carlie Procell
Editors: Patti Epler, Jessica Terrell
Development and Design: Mantle
