Earth Day was celebrated by Pres. Joe Biden – and Ashley Mackenzie of the Dept. of Natural Resources and Environmental Management.
He issued EO 14072, which directs the federal government to carry out the First National Nature Assessment. She will co-write a chapter in this historic attempt to take stock of U.S. lands, waters, wildlife, and the benefits provided to our economy, health, climate, environmental justice, and national security.
Her chapter is called Nature and the Economy, and she and other experts and researchers will focus on economic activities, infrastructure, and employment that are directly or indirectly related to nature and explore how changes in nature affect economic benefits, risks, and opportunities.
This report presents a significant opportunity for communities in Hawaiʻi to have their voices heard and their perspectives valued in shaping the NNA1, explains Ashley, who hopes her participation reflects the needs and aspirations of Hawaiian communities and contributes to their well-being and resilience in the face of environmental change.
“I am honored to be a part of the first ever National Nature Assessment!” she says. “It is a unique opportunity to be involved in the public discussion around our deep dependency on our natural environment. I encourage those interested in this work to please reach out to me.”