WHEREAS, the State of Yap, as part of the Federated States of Micronesia, is highly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change, including sea-level rise, coastal erosion, extreme weather events, coral bleaching, and impacts on food, water security and livelihood; and

WHEREAS, the preservation and protection of Yap’s natural environment and traditional ecological knowledge are essential to the well-being, identity, and resilience of its people; and

WHEREAS, addressing environmental challenges requires coordinated, sustained, and culturally-informed policy responses that prioritize sustainability, conservation, and climate adaptation; and

WHEREAS, a committee dedicated to climate change and environmental issues will provide focused leadership, facilitate informed legislative and executive action, and ensure effective engagement with national, regional, and international partners; now, therefore,

BE IT RESOLVED by the Eleventh Legislature of the State of Yap, Third Regular Session, 2025 that the Legislature hereby requests the Governor of the State of Yap to establish an Advisory Committee on Climate Change and Environment within the Executive Branch of the Yap State Government; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that such a committee, advisory or technical in nature, shall be established with the following mission, structure and responsibilities:

Section 1: Establishment

Committee on Climate Change and Environment is hereby established as an Advisory Committee within the government of the State of Yap.

Section 2: Purpose

The Committee shall serve as the principal advisory and coordinating body on matters relating to:

• Developing and guiding climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies to reduce environmental risks and enhance long-term sustainability.
• Protecting natural resources and biodiversity, ensuring the conservation of ecosystems vital to the well-being of present and future generations.
• Promoting environmental health and conservation practices to maintain clean air, water, and land across all communities.
• Integrating traditional ecological knowledge, recognizing and incorporating Indigenous wisdom and sustainable practices into modern environmental policy.
• Building community awareness and resilience, fostering public education, local capacity building, and proactive engagement in environmental initiatives.
• Enhancing food security and sustainability, by promoting climate-resilient agriculture and marine resource management that ensures reliable food systems.
• Fostering environmental and economic growth, recognizing that sustainability-driven practices not only protect the environment but also create green jobs, support livelihoods, and stimulate long-term economic development.

Section 3: Functions and Duties

The Committee shall:

1. Advise the Yap State Government and respective line agencies on climate-related risks, policies, and programs;
2. Coordinate with national and international agencies, including non-government organizations, on environmental funding and projects;
3. Working with current appropriate government offices to support the implementation of Yap State’s environmental laws, regulations, and international commitments;
4. Working and coordinating with appropriate offices to organize public education campaigns and promote sustainable practices across all sectors;
5. Recommend legislative and administrative measures to enhance environmental protection and climate resilience;
6. Prepare and submit an annual report on the state of the environment and climate action in Yap to the Governor, the two traditional councils, the Judiciary and the Legislature.

Section 4: Membership

The Committee shall consist of:

• One representative from the Department of Resources and Development;
• One representative from the Department of Health Services (Environmental Health);
• One youth representative from a recognized environmental or student organization;
• One traditional leader selected by the Council of Pilung and the Council of Tamol; and
• One academic or expert in climate or environmental science.

The Chairperson shall be elected from among the members during the first session of each term.

Section 5: Meetings

The Committee shall convene quarterly, with emergency or special meetings as necessary. Quorum shall consist of a simple majority of the members.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that certified copies of this Resolution be transmitted to the Governor of the State of Yap, all Cabinet Members, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Chief Justice of the Yap State Court, the Chairman of the Council of Pilung and the Chairman of the Council of Tamol.