The Lawfare Podcast Lawfare Archive: ‘Threat Multiplier,’ Climate, and the Military with Sherri Goodman
Nov 1, 2025
Sherri Goodman, Secretary General of the International Military Council on Climate & Security and former Deputy Undersecretary of Defense for Environmental Security, discusses her career at the intersection of climate change and national security. She explains the concept of 'threat multiplier' and how it reshaped Pentagon strategies. Goodman addresses concerns about military readiness versus environmental action, emphasizes the military's role in climate leadership, and outlines four key pillars for future climate action. A fascinating look at the nexus of climate and defense!
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From Weapons Production To Cleanup
- Sherri Goodman moved from nuclear weapons oversight to environmental cleanup after safety lapses closed reactors and processing plants.
- That shift turned vast Cold War production sites into long-term cleanup and stewardship challenges.
Engage Communities And Congress Early
- Build trust by inviting NGOs, communities, and Congress into military environmental planning processes.
- Use restoration advisory boards and joint programs to accelerate cleanup and property reuse.
Military-EPA Partnership At Montreal
- The 1987 Montreal Protocol forced the military to rethink firefighting chemicals after EPA flagged ozone damage.
- Air Force officers partnered with EPA negotiators to find less damaging alternatives and attended protocol talks.
