Experts from Trends, Government Empowerment Department and Rabdan discuss the relationship between security and climate

The Abu Dhabi Department of Government Enablement in collaboration with the Rabdan Academy and Trends Research & Advisory held an event on Thursday 14th December combining the themes of climate and security. The three panel discussions focused on “Non-traditional security and the role of security and defence entities in supporting climate change.”

Three panel sessions on the following themes were held:  Panel 1. Non-Traditional Security; Panel 2. Role of SSDEC (Safety, Security, Defence, Emergency Preparedness, and Crisis Management) in the Climate Crisis; and Panel 3. Climate Resilience and Adaptation.

The panels featured speakers from the three sides who explored effective strategies for climate action, assessed the tangible impacts of the climate crisis on global food and water security, as well as the new security challenges arising from the climate crisis.

The Panelists, who included experts, researchers and academics made a number of key recommendations, including: the need for urgent action to address the climate crisis, including reducing emissions and promoting adaptation, the importance of international cooperation in addressing the climate crisis, including the exchange of experiences and technologies, the need to invest in resilient and adaptable infrastructure, including irrigation and sanitation systems, and the importance of promoting public awareness of the climate crisis and its risks.

Speakers from TRENDS, Rabdan Academy and the Department of Empowerment stressed the pivotal role of security and defense agencies in supporting climate action efforts.

They said security and defence actors play an important role in protecting communities from the risks of climate change, such as natural disasters and mass migration. They can also play a role in promoting public awareness of the climate crisis and its risks.

They also stressed the need to change the behaviour of the general public, especially with regard to food and water, and said that our behaviours must become more sustainable, especially in relation to our consumption of food and water. This will help reduce the demand for resources and protect the environment.

The panel concluded that the climate crisis is a serious challenge that requires international cooperation and coordinated efforts from all stakeholders.