A Network to Meet the Security Challenges of Environmental Stressors and Instability

Abstract:

Environmental change and degradation are intensifying competition for natural resources such as water and arable land. Paired with poor governance, environmental stressors can accelerate fragility, instability, and risk of conflict. Such instability threatens human, national, and international security, particularly when violent extremists, terrorists, and revisionist powers exploit fragile regions to gain influence and control. To inform U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) strategic thinking on these topics, we founded a team focused on Resource Competition, Environmental Security, and Stability (RECESS). Bringing together more than 50 civilians and military officers from Office of the Secretary of Defense, the Military Services, the Joint Staff, the Combatant Commands, and other DoD Components, RECESS informs policy and strategy, breaks down silos, coordinates messaging, and promotes cooperation on environmental security and stability across DoD. RECESS also serves as a bridge to the Intelligence Community and key stakeholders in other U.S. Government departments and agencies, academia, think tanks, non-governmental organizations, and international organizations. Bringing together the talent, diverse perspectives, and knowledge of these communities can help to ensure that DoD has the necessary information, context, and insights to prepare for the growing security risks of global environmental change and instability.