Maui's battle against post-wildfire exploitation and the rise of a land trust
In the aftermath of devastating wildfires in Maui, a community land trust aims to prevent predatory land grabs and preserve Lahaina's character.
Nina Lakhani reports for The Guardian.
In short:
- Following the Maui wildfires, speculators targeted survivors with offers for their destroyed properties, threatening the historic town of Lahaina's future.
- The Lahaina Community Land Trust (LCLT) was established to counteract these efforts, aiming to keep lands within the community and support affordable housing.
- Despite challenges, the trust seeks to protect Lahaina's cultural heritage and prevent displacement of its residents.
Key quote:
"We're in this to stop our people being further displaced, and change the trajectory of our town and community."
— Carolyn Auweloa, Vice-President and Secretary of the LCLT
Why this matters:
In Maui, the fires not only consumed vast stretches of vegetation but also disrupted wildlife habitats, leading to a loss of biodiversity. The human toll of wildfires is equally catastrophic. The displacement of residents and the destruction of infrastructure can also have lasting psychological effects on survivors.
One of the most overlooked consequences of climate change? Our mental health.
