Fellows mentioned in this story: Jeff Mikulina

From KHON2:

In this episode of Empowered Hawai‘i, hosts Jeff Mikulina and Kelly Simek spotlight Hawai‘i’s inspiring climate leaders with the first-ever Climate Hawai‘i Leadership Awards. This celebration highlights exceptional individuals and organizations leading the way toward a clean, resilient Hawai‘i.

Jeff kicks off by talking with former Governor David Ige, honored as the “Individual Climate Hero” for his monumental commitment to Hawai‘i’s 100% renewable energy goal by 2045. Ige’s forward-thinking policies have paved the way for clean energy advancements and set an inspiring example for local and global leaders alike, demonstrating the power of determined local leadership in addressing global challenges.

Kelly then connects with Shayna Doi, Marketing and Communications Manager of Hawai‘i Energy, a public-private partnership dedicated to making energy efficiency accessible and impactful. Shayna shares Hawai‘i Energy’s mission of empowering island families and businesses to make smarter energy choices, as well as collaborations with companies like Wet ’n Wild Hawai‘i and Highgate, showcasing how sustainable practices are taking root within Hawai‘i’s tourism sector. These partnerships prove that businesses and conservation efforts can work hand-in-hand toward a shared goal of environmental stewardship.

The episode concludes with a conversation between the hosts and Emily Fielding, Hawai‘i Marine Conservation Director of The Nature Conservancy, which was honored as “Innovative Climate Solutions” at the Climate Leadership Awards. Emily discusses the pioneering efforts to insure Hawai‘i’s coral reefs, a groundbreaking approach that values and protects these vital marine ecosystems. Through such initiatives, Hawai‘i’s reefs gain financial resilience to recover from storm damage, ensuring long-term conservation.

This episode of Empowered Hawai‘i shines a spotlight on the vision, dedication, and action driving Hawaii’s climate progress. From renewable energy to environmental stewardship, these leaders embody Hawai‘i’s commitment to building a sustainable, climate-resilient future for the islands and beyond.

Watch at khon2.com.