Environmental Security

Definition

Environmental security refers to the concept that environmental degradation and resource scarcity can pose significant threats to national and international security. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of ecological health and human well-being, suggesting that issues such as climate change, deforestation, and pollution can lead to conflict, migration, and instability. Understanding environmental security is essential for addressing global challenges and fostering sustainable development.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Environmental security links ecological issues directly with human security concerns, indicating that environmental degradation can lead to social unrest.
2. Natural disasters intensified by climate change can displace populations, leading to 'climate refugees' and increased tensions in receiving areas.
3. Water scarcity is a critical factor in environmental security, as competition over dwindling freshwater resources can lead to conflict between states.
4. Many military organizations around the world have started incorporating environmental security into their strategies, recognizing it as a potential source of conflict.
5. International agreements like the Paris Accord aim to address climate change impacts on environmental security by promoting global cooperation.

Review Questions

• How does environmental security connect ecological health with human well-being?
  • Environmental security establishes a direct link between ecological health and human well-being by arguing that degradation of natural resources threatens not only the environment but also social stability. When ecosystems fail due to pollution or climate change, it results in scarcity of vital resources like water and food, which can drive conflict and displacement. Thus, protecting the environment is essential for maintaining peace and stability in societies.
• Discuss how climate change impacts environmental security and contributes to global conflicts.
  • Climate change impacts environmental security significantly by exacerbating resource scarcity and increasing the frequency of natural disasters. This leads to heightened competition for resources like water and arable land, which can escalate tensions between communities and nations. For instance, as droughts become more common due to changing climate patterns, regions already facing economic struggles may experience conflicts driven by desperation for dwindling resources.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of international strategies aimed at addressing environmental security challenges.
  • The effectiveness of international strategies addressing environmental security challenges varies widely based on commitment levels among nations and the ability to enforce agreements. Initiatives like the Paris Agreement represent a collective effort to mitigate climate impacts through cooperation; however, varying national interests often hinder progress. To truly improve environmental security globally, stronger frameworks for accountability and shared technological advancements are essential, alongside active participation from both developed and developing countries.

Related terms

Sustainable Development: A development approach that seeks to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Climate Change: Long-term changes in temperature and typical weather patterns in a place, which can exacerbate resource scarcity and increase conflict potential.

Resource Scarcity: The lack of sufficient resources to meet the demands of a population, which can lead to competition, conflict, and instability.