POLITICO Energy DOD will end its ‘climate change crap.’ That could potentially backfire on the Pentagon.
Mar 17, 2025
Scott Waldman, a White House reporter for E&E News focused on climate change, dives into the Department of Defense's controversial decision to halt climate initiatives. He discusses how this move could potentially jeopardize military readiness and strategic objectives. Waldman highlights the intricate link between climate efforts and national security, cautioning against the long-term repercussions of budget cuts on the military's operational effectiveness. The conversation sheds light on the evolving political landscape regarding climate science within federal agencies.
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Hybrid Tanks
- The military is developing hybrid tanks to extend their range and reduce fuel consumption.
- This also reduces their heat signature on the battlefield, offering a tactical advantage.
DOD Climate Work Complexity
- Identifying climate-related work within the DOD is complex, as some initiatives serve multiple purposes.
- Efforts like developing hybrid tanks, while having climate implications, are primarily driven by strategic goals.
DOD Climate Work Removal
- The DOD is canceling climate-related studies and reviewing contracts with climate-related keywords.
- However, fully eliminating climate considerations from budgeting and planning is a complex, long-term process.