There are so many reasons to end the horror and suffering of global wars. But one reason may not be well understood.
Scientific America reports that under the UN Paris Agreement, nations are not required to report their military greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
In 2022, the Conflict and Environment Observatory claimed that militaries account for 5.5 per cent of global GHG emissions, and this is likely an underestimate.
We are now beginning to see clearly that climate change is not just an environmental issue; it has become a central challenge to global peace and security. As the planet warms, its effects reach far beyond rising temperatures and extreme weather events. The impacts are considered to be “threat multipliers,” which foster conditions that can exacerbate conflict, heighten inequality, and destabilize entire regions.
The interconnectedness of climate change and peace is evident as more frequent natural disasters, food insecurity and displacement create fertile ground for social unrest and violent conflict.
One of the most pressing links between climate change and peace is resource scarcity. As climate change alters precipitation patterns, disrupts agriculture and threatens water supplies,competition for scarce resources intensifies. Climate-driven droughts and crop failures can lead to food shortages, driving up prices and provoking competition among communities and nations.When friction between groups or states over access and control of scarce resources heightens, it can easily escalate into conflict.
In areas where governance structures are weak, or the rule of law is not enforced, the effects can be even more destructive.
The migration crisis is another indication of the link between climate change and peace. As rising sea levels inundate coastal areas and extreme weather events force people to flee their homes, millions of climate refugees are displaced. As people migrate to neighbouring regions or countries,overcrowding and increasing competition for jobs can occur, along with impacts to housing and essential services. In some cases, host communities are not prepared to accommodate large influxes of people, leading to resentment and social friction that can fuel conflict.
Moreover, climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable communities, exacerbating inequalities and threatening livelihoods. Indigenous groups, rural populations, and low-income communities are often the most impacted by climate change but also the least equipped to adapt.The resulting poverty, disenfranchisement, and lack of opportunity can contribute to social instability. In fragile states, these issues can contribute to a breakdown of social cohesion and provide a breeding ground for extremist ideologies or violent groups seeking to exploit grievances.
Despite these challenges, local action can play a crucial role in mitigating the impact of climate change on peace. Communities can take proactive steps to reduce their carbon footprints, promote sustainable agriculture and enhance disaster resilience. Local governments and organizations can also work together to strengthen social safety nets, ensure equitable access to resources and build inclusive communities that are less prone to conflict.
Education and public awareness campaigns can foster cooperation and understanding, enabling citizens to better navigate the shared challenges of climate change. By investing in climate adaptation and conflict prevention strategies at the local level, communities can contribute to a more peaceful and sustainable future for all.J
Julia Beatty chairs the Shuswap Climate Action Society
