#OurClimateFuture | Te Arawa
Climate Change and Community Preparedness in Aotearoa
Introduction to Climate Concerns
- Lani Kereopa introduces herself as the Climate Change Coordinator at Te Arawa Lakes Trust, emphasizing the importance of community preparedness for potential failures in food and energy systems due to climate change.
Impact of Climate Change on Te Arawa
- The issue of climate change has been a recurring topic during hui (meetings) with hapū (sub-tribes), highlighting recent storm events that have caused physical damage, such as a tree falling through a marae's roof.
- Rising lake temperatures and flooding in Ngongotaha are significant concerns, prompting the formation of the Te Arawa Climate Change Working Group to address these challenges.
Priorities for Cultural Infrastructure
- The group named their initiative "Te Urunga o Kea," focusing on protecting cultural infrastructure and communities from rising sea levels affecting coastal areas like Maketū and Little Waihi.
- Mapping efforts by rangatahi (youth) are underway to identify vulnerable areas along riverbanks and lakes, ensuring proactive measures can be taken.
Biodiversity Challenges
- Biodiversity is identified as a priority area within the Te Arawa climate change strategy, with various marae, hapū, and whānau engaged in initiatives across traditional lands.
Freshwater Ecosystem Threats
- The speaker discusses their role as Freshwater Fisheries Advisor, noting that climate change may worsen eutrophication effects in lakes due to predicted temperature increases by 2100.
- Algal blooms resulting from higher temperatures deplete oxygen levels in water bodies, forcing fish and other aquatic species into shallower zones where they face competition from invasive species like brown bullhead catfish.
Decline of Native Species
- There has been an alarming 80% decline in freshwater crayfish abundance in Lake Rotoiti over the past fifteen years due to invasive species consuming native taonga (treasures).
- The need for resources and support is emphasized to implement existing plans effectively. Collaboration between government entities and iwi is crucial for achieving environmental goals.
Commitment to Future Generations
- The phrase "Ka whawhai tonu mātou" signifies a commitment to continue fighting for future generations' rights and well-being amidst ongoing environmental challenges.