UVM Theses and Dissertations
Format:
Print
Author:
Pincus, Rebecca
Dept./Program:
Natural Resources
Year:
2013
Degree:
PhD
Abstract:
If scientific models are accurate, the global changes resulting from the increasing concentration of carbon dioxide in the earth's atmosphere promise to significantly reshape the geopolitical position of the United States as well as to alter the global balance of power. These changes are numerous and varied, ranging from freer access to the Arctic region that will result from polar warming to civil disruptions stemming from droughts, floods, and increased storm severity. The variety, scope, and disruptive nature of the consequences of climate alteration pose a serious challenge to the American national security establishment and the Department of Defense in particular. The following research examines various aspects ofthat challenge.
First, an examination of the diverse set ofchallenges and threats posed by a changing climate to Department of Defense (DoD) installations and operations at home and abroad. Next, an analysis of the ways in which cultural attitudes towards nature may have shaped DoD's response to environmental threats including climate change. Finally, a case study of one particular security institution, the US Coast Guard, and its evolving response to a particular aspect of climate change: retreating Arctic sea ice.
Although this research leaves many questions unanswered, as the challenge posed by climate change is both uncertain and globally distributed, some preliminary conclusions can be drawn, as described in the final summary. Organizational and cultural factors continue to shape the response of security institutions to climate change, and the politicization of the issue has also complicated efforts to address the challenges it poses. However, those threats are becoming clear, and historically the ability of the American security establishment to mobilize in the face of danger has been remarkable. Should large-scale efforts to combat the effects of a changing climate take off within DoD and the broader establishment, the repercussions throughout the US and the globe may be significant.
First, an examination of the diverse set ofchallenges and threats posed by a changing climate to Department of Defense (DoD) installations and operations at home and abroad. Next, an analysis of the ways in which cultural attitudes towards nature may have shaped DoD's response to environmental threats including climate change. Finally, a case study of one particular security institution, the US Coast Guard, and its evolving response to a particular aspect of climate change: retreating Arctic sea ice.
Although this research leaves many questions unanswered, as the challenge posed by climate change is both uncertain and globally distributed, some preliminary conclusions can be drawn, as described in the final summary. Organizational and cultural factors continue to shape the response of security institutions to climate change, and the politicization of the issue has also complicated efforts to address the challenges it poses. However, those threats are becoming clear, and historically the ability of the American security establishment to mobilize in the face of danger has been remarkable. Should large-scale efforts to combat the effects of a changing climate take off within DoD and the broader establishment, the repercussions throughout the US and the globe may be significant.