University of Hawaiʻi leaders recently joined over 180 representatives from various sectors for the 4th annual Hawaiʻi Food System Summit on December 8 and 9. The goal? To discuss how to strengthen the food system in Hawaii, making it more accessible and resilient against disasters.
The event was organized by the UH Ke Ō Mau Center and its initiative, Transforming Hawaiʻi’s Food System Together, along with key faculty members. They focused on community education, research, and planning. Notable leaders from different UH campuses, including UH West Oʻahu and the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience, facilitated sessions aimed at boosting food system resilience in Hawaii.
Albie Miles, an associate professor at UH, shared insights on food system resilience. “It’s about more than just having food stored away. It requires strong social networks and coordination,” he explained. This emphasis on community connections adds depth to the discussion about food security.
A recent study by UH researchers highlighted a concerning issue: only 12% of Hawaiian households are prepared in terms of food and emergency supplies. This gap poses a risk during potential disasters, showing how unprepared many are when it comes to food security.
The summit’s focus on preparedness was timely. With lessons drawn from the Lāhainā wildfires and insights from the Oʻahu Feeding Task Force, the event discussed state-level planning, emergency distribution, and boosting local food production. It was clear that a disaster-ready food system needs collective effort and ongoing investment.
As Miles emphasized, “Hawaiʻi has the expertise and community spirit to implement these changes.” To make a meaningful shift, awareness and coordinated action are vital. Through such events, Hawaii can work towards a resilient future where nutritious food is always within reach.
You can find recordings and related materials from the summit here.
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