Schatz Speaks at Congressional Briefing with East-West Center

Washington, DC – Yesterday, Senator Brian Schatz spoke at a congressional briefing with the East-West Center and the Pacific Islands Regional Climate Assessment to inform policymakers about the implications of climate change in Hawai‘i and the Pacific.

“In Hawai‘i and throughout the Pacific, climate change is not an abstract concept –it is already having very real consequences,” said Senator Brian Schatz. “Decreased freshwater supplies, higher air and sea surface temperatures, rising sea levels, and beach erosion are all major concerns that could permanently affect our economy and environment. We cannot afford to keep waiting while some lawmakers drag their feet. Instead, we must invest in clean energy and decrease our dependence on foreign oil now. I thank the East-West Center and the Pacific Islands Regional Climate Assessment for joining me in working to broaden the conversation and seek solutions.”

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