Comprehensive security is built on a healthy environment

The state of the environment is directly connected to security

The deterioration of the environment amplifies risks across multiple areas of security. A declining environment worsens people’s living conditions and acts as a driver of conflict. Climate change increases the likelihood of floods and droughts, threatening critical infrastructure such as energy, food and water supply. Reduced availability of natural resources hampers the economy and may heighten international conflicts.

The current geopolitical situation in Finland and its neighbouring regions is also producing environmental risks. The likelihood of oil spills in the Baltic Sea has increased, and intensified military exercises in the Arctic put a strain on its fragile environment. The environment can also become a target or a tool of conflict, for example through attacks on energy and water systems or the deliberate destruction of nature.

Sustainability transformation strengthens security

The sustainability transformation – a shift towards a society that operates within the limits of nature’s carrying capacity – also strengthens comprehensive security. It offers an opportunity to simultaneously promote security, economic stability and a healthy environment through concrete actions and investments.

For example, energy efficiency and the circular economy reduce dependence on imported raw materials and conserve natural resources. Nature restoration can benefit both biodiversity and border security, while new technologies can serve both national defence and environmental monitoring. Sustainability transformations can also improve environmental health and create new competitive advantages.

“Security is not only about responding to threats; it is also about building wellbeing and resilience. A good state of the environment supports comprehensive security, people’s wellbeing and the stability of everyday life,” says Paula Kivimaa, Research professor at the Finnish Environment Institute.

Collaboration is needed to advance sustainability transformation and security together

Both comprehensive security and sustainability transformation are built on cooperation among a wide range of actors, from the local to the national and international levels.

“Environmental knowledge and expertise are critical for societal preparedness, corporate risk management, as well as conflict prevention and mediation. Environmental researchers play a key role in this, but sustainable solutions are developed together with a broad group of stakeholders,” says Suvi Sojamo, Principal researcher at the Finnish Environment Institute.

• Read our new Syke Policy Brief: Comprehensive security is built on a good state environment (Issuu.com)