Ecological Threats: A New Dimension of National Security

• Authors: Emmett Duffy (Smithsonian Institution) and Rod Schoonover (Georgetown University) highlight ecological risks to security.
• Ecological Disruptions: Issues like overfishing, deforestation, and zoonotic diseases are identified as national security threats.
• Overfishing Example: The article cites the “Cod Wars” (1950s-1970s) between Iceland and the UK, where fishing disputes led to diplomatic tensions.
• Cod Wars Impact: Iceland threatened to exit NATO and close a US military base, forcing the UK to accept a 300-km fishing limit.
• Zoonotic Diseases: Diseases like COVID-19, originating from animals, disrupt economies and global stability, posing security risks.
• Global Stability: Ecological disruptions affect food security, trade, and international relations, amplifying geopolitical tensions.
• Historical Context: The article draws parallels with past conflicts driven by resource scarcity, like fish stocks.
• Security Implications: Environmental degradation can escalate into conflicts, requiring proactive policy measures.
• Interconnected Systems: Ecosystems are linked to human security, with disruptions impacting livelihoods and governance.
• Policy Need: The authors advocate integrating ecological concerns into national security frameworks to prevent crises.
• Climate Change Link: Rising temperatures and habitat loss exacerbate ecological threats, compounding security risks.
• Global Cooperation: Addressing these issues requires international collaboration to manage shared resources sustainably.
• Research Basis: The article stems from expert analysis at leading institutions, emphasizing evidence-based warnings.
• Publication Details: Republished by The Hindu on April 12, 2025, from The Conversation, highlighting its global relevance.
• Call to Action: Policymakers are urged to prioritize environmental sustainability to safeguard national and global security.

Key Terms:

• Ecological Disruptions: Environmental changes threatening ecosystems and human systems.
• National Security: Protection of a nation’s stability, often linked to military and economic factors.
• Overfishing: Excessive fishing depleting marine resources, causing economic and diplomatic issues.
• Cod Wars: 1950s-1970s UK-Iceland disputes over fishing rights in the North Atlantic.
• Zoonotic Diseases: Illnesses transmitted from animals to humans, like COVID-19.
• Food Security: Access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food for populations.
• Geopolitical Tensions: Conflicts between nations driven by resource or territorial disputes.
• Sustainable Development: Growth balancing environmental, economic, and social needs.

Link To The Original Article – https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/ecological-disruptions-are-a-risk-to-national-security/article69425645.ece