Our recent history – and lack of collective action – has highlighted how difficult it is to ignite this sense of urgency for climate change transformation. Climate change transformation will involve developing and implementing renewable energy strategies, ‘greening’ the financial system, and managing economic and social adaptation. A full suite of plans and activities is necessary for such a significant task.
But they also need to be viewed as real and tangible – not abstract and intellectual. Transformational change needs to be motivated through engaging both minds and hearts in individuals, institutions, and broad society. Each of these levels interweaves, and builds on and supports each other. As Pacific Islanders we have lived with constant change.