Rising Nato military spending to cause huge spike in emissions, report warns
The GuardianSEP 2025
NATO's Climate Change and Security Action Plan demonstrates the alliance's commitment to balancing defense needs with environmental responsibility. The organization has set ambitious targets to reduce emissions by 45% by 2030 while maintaining operational effectiveness. NATO is investing in green technologies, energy-efficient bases, sustainable fuels and climate-resilient infrastructure. These efforts include developing common methodologies for measuring military emissions, promoting interoperability of clean technologies and integrating climate considerations into defense planning to ensure forces remain capable in a changing environment.
Military effectiveness and troop safety must take priority over emissions concerns that may not significantly impact global climate. Electric tanks with limited range and charging requirements would compromise battlefield capabilities and endanger soldiers' lives. The military's primary mission is to deploy, fight and win wars — not to serve as environmental leaders. Green technologies often reduce operational efficiency and create vulnerabilities, while fossil fuel independence remains crucial for national security and energy dominance in an increasingly dangerous world.
Canada can lead by demonstrating that national defense and climate responsibility work together through comprehensive emissions tracking, green procurement, climate-resilient military planning, dual-use infrastructure serving remote communities and sustainable space operations. Defense spending should deliver long-term value by ensuring investments are climate-compatible and built for environmental realities. Every defense dollar must help secure both national security and a livable future, integrating sustainability into all aspects of defense strategy rather than treating them as competing priorities.
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