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Kai on the military and climate change
Sep 24, 2024
Kai Ryssdal, a Navy veteran and host, dives into the complex relationship between the military and climate change. He reflects on military training in extreme environments, revealing how traditional threats have evolved alongside climate issues. The discussion highlights climate change's impact on national security, including geopolitical tensions from melting Arctic ice. Ryssdal shares personal experiences that illustrate the military's dual role in both contributing to and combating climate crises, underscoring an urgent need for adaptive strategies in a warming world.
30:31
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Quick takeaways
- The U.S. military is adapting its strategies to address climate change as a significant threat multiplier affecting national security.
- Investments in resilient infrastructure and alternative energy sources are vital for military operations in response to increasing extreme weather events.
Deep dives
Military Training and Climate Awareness
The military's historical perspective on climate change has evolved significantly, especially when reflecting on the Cold War era. During the 1980s, the primary focus was on geopolitical threats like the Soviet Union, with no mention of climate-related issues among military personnel. However, as awareness of climate change has grown, it is now recognized as a critical threat multiplier that impacts military operations and readiness. This change in viewpoint illustrates the military's adaptation to modern threats, acknowledging climate change as a variable that complicates national security.
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