Medical, military leaders call climate change a threat to global security

April 6th, 2011 - 2:55 pm ICT by ANI  

London, Apr 6 (ANI): Climate change not only spells a global health catastrophe, but also threatens global stability and security, say medical and military leaders.

“Climate change poses an immediate and grave threat, driving ill-health and increasing the risk of conflict, such that each feeds upon the other,” the authors said.

A recent report by the International Institute for Strategic Studies concurs: “Climate change will increase the risks of resource shortages, mass migration, and civil conflict. These could lead to failed states, which threaten global stability and security.” It stresses the need for “sustained investment in infrastructure and new technologies” of which “a shift to renewable energy sources will be the most visible effect of efforts to mitigate emissions.”

“It might be considered unusual for the medical and military professions to concur,” say the authors. “But on this subject we do.”

They conclude: “Although discussion is good, we can no longer delay implementing tough action that will make a difference, while quibbling over minor uncertainties in climate modelling. Unlike most recent natural disasters, this one is entirely predictable.”

The report was published on bmj.com. (ANI)

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