Asger Risom
Rising global temperatures and growing military conflicts are not isolated issues. From fuel-hungry operations to broken climate cooperation, war is accelerating the climate crisis — and vice versa.
Rising global temperatures and growing military conflicts are not isolated issues. From fuel-hungry operations to broken climate cooperation, war is accelerating the climate crisis — and vice versa.
Two Crises, One Feedback Loop
Climate change increases the risk of conflict through resource shortages and displacement — and war, in turn, worsens environmental degradation.
A Record Year for Warming and War
In 2024, Earth’s temperature exceeded 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels — even as major wars raged in Ukraine, Palestine, and Sudan.
How War Fuels Emissions
Warfare produces massive greenhouse gas emissions. The global military carbon footprint is estimated to be larger than that of Russia.
The U.S. Military’s Carbon Toll
If the U.S. military were a country, it would rank 47th in emissions worldwide — and it’s the single largest military emitter on the planet.
Climate Cooperation Is Under Threat
Conflicts like the war in Ukraine have severed key scientific ties — including joint Arctic research essential for monitoring climate change.
Calls for Accountability
Critics argue that militaries must face scrutiny not just for warfare, but for their environmental impact — and their massive fuel consumption.
The Fork in the Road
Experts say the military must either modernize with sustainable tech or continue worsening the crisis. The path chosen will shape future conflicts.
