The climate crisis is undeniably a pressing global issue, and militaries across the world have begun to recognize its far-reaching implications. However, the intersection of climate change and national security is often framed through the lens of “climate securitization,” where climate change is treated as a threat multiplier to national security. While this approach has successfully brought climate concerns into military planning, it has arguably slowed the necessary progress toward decarbonizing military operations.
The UK Royal Air Force (RAF) is one of the few militaries to commit to achieving net-zero emissions by 2040, experimenting with sustainable aviation fuels derived from water and atmospheric carbon. Yet, the significant renewable energy demands required to decarbonize military activities have not been widely discussed. This raises a critical question: Has viewing climate change primarily as a security threat delayed the partnerships and public support essential for rapid military decarbonization?
The Challenge of Military Decarbonization
Decarbonizing military operations is no small feat. The sector is deeply entrenched in fossil fuel dependence, and the long life cycles of military equipment complicate swift transitions to cleaner technologies. Additionally, decarbonizing military aircraft and naval vessels is tied to the progress of civilian sector decarbonization—an equally complex challenge.
Despite these hurdles, the need for rapid action is clear. The climate crisis is accelerating, and militaries must play their part in reducing global emissions. It is estimated that military operations and their supply chains contribute around 5.5% of global emissions. Yet, until recently, military decarbonization has been largely ignored in global climate discourse. If meaningful action had been taken a decade ago, how different would military institutions and their carbon footprints look today?
Building Effective Partnerships for Decarbonization
Military decarbonization requires effective partnerships between the public and private sectors, academia, and civil society. Governments must send clear signals that decarbonization is a priority, enabling the private sector to innovate and collaborate on new solutions. While the defence sector has traditionally been seen as a leader in technological innovation, it is now proposed that institutions like the UK Ministry of Defence act as “fast followers” of civilian decarbonization technologies.
Clear government messaging is key to building these partnerships and ensuring that military decarbonization initiatives receive the attention and resources they need. At VURDHAAN, we have been supporting the defence sector’s shift towards sustainability through frameworks like the NATO Green Defence Framework, ISO 14001, and Sustainable Procurement practices. We help defense organizations integrate innovative technologies and sustainability strategies into their operations, bridging the gap between military needs and decarbonization goals.
Engaging Public Opinion and Avoiding Culture Wars
Public support is essential for any successful decarbonization effort, including within the military. As defence institutions reflect the values of the societies they serve, public understanding and consent for military decarbonization are crucial. Yet, the conversation around military emissions has often been overshadowed by political debates, with some factions labeling environmental initiatives as “woke policies.”
To avoid turning military decarbonization into a casualty of culture wars, governments must communicate the urgency and importance of these efforts. They must clearly outline the challenges involved and highlight how reducing military emissions protects both national security and the environment. Without this transparent communication, there is a risk of public mistrust, greenwashing, and further delays in achieving decarbonization goals.
The Path Forward: Integrating Climate and Security
As global CO2 levels rise and military expenditures continue to increase, the need for military decarbonization becomes more urgent. The international community must recognize that security decisions directly impact climate change, and vice versa. While climate securitization has succeeded in bringing attention to climate risks, it must now evolve to include meaningful action on reducing military emissions.
At VURDHAAN, we are committed to helping defense institutions navigate this complex landscape. Our tailored strategies and compliance frameworks ensure that military organizations can meet decarbonization goals without compromising operational effectiveness. By fostering effective partnerships, enhancing carbon literacy, and engaging public opinion, we aim to support the transition toward a sustainable and secure future for military operations worldwide.