The Pacific Islands and Alaska Climate Adaptation Science Centers (CASCs) are actively collaborating to bolster Indigenous-led climate adaptation research and planning in Hawaiʻi and Alaska. This partnership emphasizes the integration of traditional ecological knowledge with contemporary climate science to develop resilient and sustainable strategies tailored to the unique environments and cultural contexts of Indigenous communities.

In Hawaiʻi, the collaborative efforts are empowering Native Hawaiian organizations and researchers to address climate-related challenges such as sea-level rise, changing precipitation patterns, and increased storm intensity. These environmental changes threaten both natural ecosystems and cultural practices rooted in the land and sea. By fostering partnerships, the CASCs are ensuring that climate adaptation strategies respect and incorporate Indigenous knowledge, which is vital for the long-term sustainability of these communities.

Similarly, in Alaska, Indigenous communities face a myriad of climate-related impacts, including permafrost thaw, coastal erosion, and shifting wildlife populations. The collaboration between the Alaska and Pacific Islands CASCs aims to support Alaskan Native tribes in developing adaptive management plans that are informed by traditional knowledge and scientific research. These plans are crucial for protecting not only the physical infrastructure of these communities but also their cultural heritage and subsistence practices.

By facilitating Indigenous leadership in climate adaptation research, the CASCs are promoting a holistic approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of ecological, cultural, and social systems. This approach not only enhances the resilience of Indigenous communities but also contributes to the broader understanding of climate change impacts and adaptation strategies.

Overall, the joint efforts of the Pacific Islands and Alaska CASCs highlight the importance of Indigenous-led initiatives in developing effective and culturally appropriate responses to climate change.