Shaping Alaska’s Climate Policy: A Conversation with Lt. Governor Byron Mallott

Alaska is warming at twice the rate as the rest of the U.S. and is already experiencing adverse impacts from climate change. Across the state, Alaskans are observing unprecedented environmental changes that threaten their health, safety, culture, and economic security.  A 2009 federal report identified 31 coastal villages as imminently threatened by climate change, and agencies suspect that number has increased in recent years.  Alaska is an energy supplier whose economy, as well as its ability to mitigate and adapt to climate change, depend on the revenue from natural resources to support economic growth and essential services. How can Alaska address climate change impacts now while also planning for the future and a transition to a cleaner energy economy? 

Lt. Governor Mallott will discuss the State of Alaska’s response to climate change through the work of the Climate Action for Alaska Leadership Team, established last October and charged with developing a recommended climate action plan and policy by September 2018. Follow the work of the CALT and preview the draft climate policy here.

An Alaska native and clan leader of the Tlingit Raven Kwaash Kee Kwaan of Yakutat, Lt. Governor Mallott will also highlight work building partnerships with Pacific Island nations to create an indigenous, ocean-focused approach to climate solutions.