It is now widely accepted that human activities are affecting global climate systems in a significant way. While there are disagreements about the exact nature, magnitude, and timing of these changes, the science is clear that global climate change is being observed. This report is intended to provide a basic summary of the observed and projected changes to Hawai‘i’s ecosystems and their resulting impacts for Hawai‘i’s residents.

This report provides a basic summary of the observed and projected changes to Hawai‘i’s ecosystems and their resulting impacts for the state’s residents. The report focuses on five (5) systems: (1) marine ecosystems – (a) open ocean and (b) coral reefs and other nearshore habitats; (2) coasts and the built environment; (3) terrestrial ecosystems; (4) freshwater resources; and, (5) human health.