Accessing Cultural Heritage and Climate Change Funding in Hawaii
GrantID: 1
Grant Funding Amount Low: $10,000,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $18,000,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Cultural Heritage and Climate Change Research in Hawaii
Hawaii faces a unique barrier regarding the preservation of its cultural heritage against the backdrop of climate change. With its islands being among the most vulnerable to rising sea levels, increased storm intensity, and changing weather patterns, Hawaii's cultural sites, traditional practices, and community identities are at considerable risk. According to a recent report, nearly 60% of Hawaii's cultural sites could be impacted by climate change-related erosion by 2050. This pressing issue poses a threat not just to the physical locations but also to the cultural narratives that define Hawaii’s diverse heritage.
The primary stakeholders facing this barrier include local Native Hawaiian communities, cultural practitioners, and researchers. These groups often find it difficult to access significant funding for research that combines academic knowledge with traditional cultural practices. Additionally, many communities rely heavily on tourism, which is directly affected by climate change, creating a cycle of vulnerability and economic instability. The lack of a coordinated approach to research and preservation heightens the risk that these communities will lose not only their cultural heritage but also their economic viability.
Funding through this initiative aims to bolster research and innovation capacity specifically targeting climate change's effects on cultural heritage in Hawaii. By supporting collaborative efforts between academic institutions, local communities, and cultural organizations, the program will enhance preservation strategies that honor traditional knowledge. This initiative is expected to yield crucial insights into sustainable practices that integrate the perspectives of Native Hawaiian practitioners with modern scientific approaches, ensuring that the preservation of cultural heritage is both relevant and effective.
Furthermore, the program is poised to facilitate the development of strategies that incorporate the expertise of local historians and cultural experts alongside researchers. By prioritizing a collaborative research framework, funding recipients will be better equipped to create adaptable solutions to the challenges posed by climate change. The focus on local engagement throughout the research process not only empowers communities but also produces culturally appropriate methodologies for addressing climate impacts.
In conclusion, the funding available through this initiative is particularly critical for Hawaii, where the intersection of climate change and cultural preservation poses distinctive challenges. The state's geographical isolation and cultural richness require specialized approaches that cannot simply be replicated in other regions. Unlike mainland initiatives, Hawaii’s approach must prioritize the integration of indigenous knowledge and community-driven strategies, setting a precedent for holistic climate action that respects and incorporates centuries of cultural heritage.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
