Sherri Goodman, Secretary General of the International Military Council on Climate and Security, is a trailblazer in climate security. She reveals how the U.S. military is leading the charge in decarbonization efforts, implementing sustainable technologies like hybrid vehicles and micro grids. Goodman discusses the clash between climate action and military strategy, and debates the sustainability of such initiatives given the broader drivers of conflict. She emphasizes the military's role in safeguarding national security amidst resource scarcity and climate crises.
The U.S. military is advancing in decarbonization efforts, integrating renewable energy and sustainable practices into its operational strategy.
Climate change is reshaping military roles and readiness, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to security amidst evolving global challenges.
Deep dives
Military's Role in Peace Building
Many of the world's leading militaries, including those of the US and UK, are fundamentally trained to act as peace builders, often engaging in times of peace to promote stability. This peace-building aspect becomes crucial as climate change exacerbates existing conflicts and social stresses globally. Despite historical instances of military intervention, such as in the Middle East, where resource considerations like oil have influenced decisions, there is a growing recognition that militaries can serve humanitarian purposes. The need for responsible engagement is clear as militaries confront the dual challenges of responding to disasters and contributing to sustainable development.
Understanding Climate Change as a Threat Multiplier
The military's awareness of climate change began gaining traction in the late 20th century, but it wasn't until 2007 that a formalized focus emerged when military leaders assessed its implications for national security. Climate change is identified as a 'threat multiplier,' affecting stability, food security, and social cohesion, while also influencing military operations and readiness. This shift prompted the integration of climate risks into defense strategies, ensuring that militaries can prepare for the unpredictable impacts of environmental changes. As such, understanding and proactive management of these risks is now embedded in military strategy and operations.
Decarbonizing Military Operations
The military operates with significant energy demands, contributing a notable percentage of national energy usage, particularly through aircraft and base operations. To address this, there are ambitious goals within the Department of Defense to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, focusing first on renewable energy at military bases. Innovations such as microgrids and sustainable aviation fuels are being pursued to enhance energy security while promoting decarbonization. By transforming energy usage, the military aims to maintain operational effectiveness while aligning with global sustainability goals.
Military Preparedness amidst Global Crises
Climate change increasingly dictates the geopolitical landscape, altering where and how military forces operate worldwide. The shifting environment, including rising sea levels and extreme weather events, necessitates a reevaluation of military readiness and strategy. As militaries become involved in domestic humanitarian efforts due to climate-related disasters, the roles they play are evolving, highlighting their necessity in times of crisis. However, as resource scarcity and conflict intertwine, it raises profound questions about the overall sustainability of military operations and the need for a comprehensive approach to security.
The U.S Military is going green. But what does that mean?
Decarbonised bases, hybrid vehicles, micro electricity grids, recycling methane gas. In fact, the U.S military is doing what climate activists are crying out for governments to do—everything, that is, except changing their overarching strategy. In a mind-bending example of how climate action can be taken when the purpose fits the status quo, the U.S military is ahead of the curve when it comes to taking this problem seriously.
I'm joined by Sherri Goodman, Secretary General of the International Military Council on Climate and the U.S first ever Under Secretary of Defence (Environmental Security) to discuss how the military is approaching the climate crisis. She explains what happens when a climate-denying administration disagrees with the military's prognosis, the steps they're taking to decarbonise, and the purported necessity for defence during times of resource scarcity.
We then debate the reality of the big picture: Is such action truly sustainable if we're not addressing the big picture drivers which create the conditions for violence and conflict?
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