Walker orders climate change action team

Gov. Bill Walker has ordered the formation of a Climate Action for Alaska Leadership Team to establish a climate change strategy for the state. In an Oct. 31 press release the governor’s office said that the idea behind the strategy is to create a long-lasting framework under which Alaskans can build a strategic response to climate change, based on the best available science and on the integration of indigenous and local knowledge, while also taking into account Alaska’s economic interests.

“Alaskans should be at the forefront of innovation and response,” Walker said. “In addition to developing solutions that ensure community and economic resilience while mitigating environmental harm, we must also engage with national and international partners to strengthen Alaska’s voice in global decision making. We will support the goals of the Paris Agreement while ensuring that Alaskan communities and businesses have the resources and opportunity to benefit from the global response to climate change.”

The governor’s office says that the climate change leadership team will be chaired by Lt. Gov. Byron Mallot. The 15-member team will consist of a diverse group of stakeholders from across the state and will build on past research and policy recommendations to formulate new policy priorities. Walker plans to appoint team members later this year and is inviting applications from interested citizens. The deadline for applications is Nov. 14.

In support of the leadership team, sub-committees composed of non-committee members will provide expertise on specific issues.

Walker wants the leadership team to submit quarterly progress reports that document preliminary recommendations, and to deliver an initial recommended plan of action to the governor by Sept. 1, 2018. The plan needs to outline achievable actions to address four aspects of dealing with climate change: mitigation, adaptation, research and response. A purpose is to foster partnerships and activities that operate across different sectors of the state.

“Climate change will affect all Alaskans,” said Mallott. “Addressing this bipartisan issue is our responsibility as global citizens, and ensures that we leave for future generations all the promise and potential that Alaska has to offer.”

- ALAN BAILEY