Global climate change presents a serious national security threat which could impact Americans at home, impact United States military operations and heighten global tensions, according to a new study released by a blue-ribbon panel of retired admirals and

 Global climate change presents a serious national security threat
which could impact Americans at home, impact United States military
operations and heighten global tensions, according to a new study
released by a blue-ribbon panel of retired admirals and generals from
all branches of the armed services.

The study, "National Security and the Threat of Climate Change,"
explores ways projected climate change is a threat multiplier in
already fragile regions, exacerbating conditions that lead to failed
states - the breeding grounds for extremism and terrorism.

The CNA Corporation brought together eleven retired three-star and
four-star admirals and generals to provide advice, expertise and
perspective on the impact of climate change. CNAC writers and
researchers compiled the report under the board's direction and
review.

The report includes several formal findings:

Projected climate change poses a serious threat to America's national
security.
Climate change acts as a threat multiplier for instability in some of
the most volatile regions of the world.
Projected climate change will add to tensions even in stable regions
of the world.
Climate change, national security and energy dependence are a related
set of global challenges.
The report also made several specific recommendations:

The national security consequences of climate change should be fully
integrated into national security and national defense strategies.
The U.S. should commit to a stronger national and international role
to help stabilize climate changes at levels that will avoid
significant disruption to global security and stability.
The U.S. should commit to global partnerships that help less developed
nations build the capacity and resiliency to better manage climate
impacts.
The Department of Defense should enhance its operational capability by
accelerating the adoption of improved business processes and
innovative technologies that result in improved U.S. combat power
through energy efficiency.
DoD should conduct an assessment of the impact on US military
installations worldwide of rising sea levels, extreme weather events,
and other possible climate change impacts over the next thirty to
forty years.        Download the Report    http://securityandclimate.cna.org/