Climate change and its security implications
The following article discusses the various ways in which climate change impacts different aspects of society, including the economy, insurance industry, geopolitics, national security, terrorism, crime rates, climate activism, energy transition risks, and business resilience. It emphasizes that climate change is not just a future threat but a current danger that needs to be considered in decision-making processes.
The economic cost of climate-induced hazards is expected to rise significantly, affecting global GDP. Insurers are re-evaluating their business models and passing on costs to policyholders or abandoning high-risk areas. Extreme weather events caused by climate change, such as hurricanes and droughts, can disrupt critical supply chains, food, and water supplies, potentially leading to civil instability or cross-border conflicts over resources.
Climate change also affects geopolitics, particularly in the Arctic, where the diminishing sea ice opens up new resources and shipping routes, triggering tensions among Arctic and non-Arctic nations. National security is impacted as defence installations and infrastructure become vulnerable to severe weather events, leading to significant economic losses. Climate change can exacerbate conditions that contribute to civil unrest and armed conflict, as seen in cases like the Egyptian revolution and the Syrian civil war.
Studies have found a correlation between climate change and terrorism, as climate-related factors can create or worsen conditions for extremism. Rising temperatures have been linked to increased crime rates, including violent crimes and online hate speech. Climate change has also mobilized and united people across the globe in climate activism, with potential for escalation and violence in the future.
The energy transition towards low-carbon technologies presents risks to the extractive industries, including establishing operations in unfamiliar and high-risk settings, environmental and social risks, and geopolitical instability. Business resilience is crucial for organizations to adapt to climate change and ensure continuity of operations. Factors to consider include conducting risk assessments, evaluating utilities’ reliability, implementing business continuity plans, and preparing for an increase in natural disasters through proactive resource management.
Overall, the article highlights the interconnectedness of climate change with various aspects of society, underscoring the urgency of addressing climate-related risks and integrating them into decision-making processes.
Read the full article at https://www.asisonline.org/security-management-magazine/articles/2023/05/climate-change-and-security/climate-security-connections/.
As a risk management company, it’s our job to ensure developing threats and levels of increased risk are met with suitable mitigation measures. To speak to one of our experts, please contact us at enqiuiries@priavosecurity.com.