The European Union has initiated a substantial military expansion while confronting climate change as a critical threat to economic stability. The article argues for a transition to a fossil-free military as essential for reducing vulnerabilities, improving military readiness, and fostering energy independence. It highlights the advancements made by countries like Sweden and emphasizes the necessity for Europe to embrace clean technologies to secure its strategic and economic future.
In a recent meeting in Brussels, all 27 EU heads of state convened to oversee significant military expansion, aimed at addressing heightened tensions reminiscent of the Cold War. Nevertheless, an often-overlooked threat looms larger: climate change, which no military arsenal can undermine. Appropriately, the focus must shift from conventional defense strategies to redefining energy practices within the military to safeguard Europe’s economic future.
Insurance experts have highlighted the grave long-term effects of climate change, predicting a potential 50% reduction in global GDP. This impending crisis underscores that security involves more than just military strength—it fundamentally relies on the economic stability of nations. Thus, as Europe strengthens its military, it must consider whether to remain tethered to fossil fuels or embrace green technologies that promise both security and economic vitality.
The emissions attributed to global militaries represent a notable concern; they contribute up to 5.5% of total carbon dioxide emissions, surpassing entire nations such as Japan and Russia. The United States Department of Defense alone has a larger carbon footprint than Sweden or Portugal, compounding its reliance on petroleum. Reliance on oil not only presents environmental dilemmas but also jeopardizes military operations, as evidenced by the dangers inscribed within fuel logistics for missions, notably in Iraq and Afghanistan, where fuel convoy protection resulted in considerable casualties. European military leaders are acutely aware of this precarious situation, pointing out the unsustainable nature of depending solely on fossil fuels for military operations.
Transitioning to a fossil-free military presents a prospect to diminish these vulnerabilities by reducing reliance on hostile energy sources and unstable supply chains. While traditional fuels like jet fuel and diesel are crucial for combat, a strategic shift towards biofuels, hydrogen, and electrification in logistics and base operations represents a feasible path that does not compromise military preparedness.
Concerns regarding energy dependency expose militaries not only to tactical disadvantages but also to pressing economic threats. The intertwined nature of military strength and oil dependence has emerged as a national security issue that climate change exacerbates. The ongoing global energy crisis, highlighted by Russia’s aggressive actions, reaffirms the urgency of transitioning away from fossil fuels.
Conversely, countries like China are capitalizing on this opportunity, positioning themselves as pioneers in military clean energy innovations. With substantial investments in technologies such as hydrogen drones and AI-driven systems, China is advancing its defense strategy towards sustainability. If Europe fails to expedite its environmental transition, it stands to lose economic standing and military viability in future conflicts.
Historically, defense spending has fostered technological innovations that served broader societal needs. Examples include the development of the internet and GPS, which originated in military applications. By prioritizing green military technologies, Europe can ensure both strategic supremacy and pioneer new cleantech advancements.
Leading by example, nations have demonstrated that progress in clean defense systems is achievable. Sweden has successfully operated its JAS 39 Gripen fighter on 100% biofuel, suggesting that performance can coexist with sustainability. Moreover, initiatives like France’s Eco Camp 2025, which employs solar-powered bases, and the UK’s hybrid-electric armored vehicles further illustrate the potential of fossil-free military technology.
The war in Ukraine underscores the advantages of low-emissions warfare capabilities. By integrating commercial drones into military operations, the Ukrainian forces have minimized reliance on fuel-heavy equipment while maintaining operational flexibility and efficacy at lower costs. This shift signifies a realignment towards decentralized and adaptable military approaches, essential for reducing fossil fuel dependence.
China’s investment in clean energy initiatives is propelling it to the forefront of military innovation, totaling approximately $940 billion in 2024, targeting electric vehicles and solar energy technologies. As a result, Europe faces significant risks not only from geopolitical instability but also from lagging behind in technology if it fails to pursue a fossil-free military agenda.
Military power fundamentally serves to avert conflict, and a transition towards an energy-independent military can deter warfare. Therefore, Europe must embrace clean energy integration into its military structure to ensure long-term energy autonomy and strategic resilience. By leading the way in military cleantech development, Europe can shape a sustainable defense future while mitigating climate-driven instabilities.
Unfortunately, some European nations have clung to dated military technologies, such as Sweden, which recently invested €1.4 billion in diesel-engine military trucks with outdated emission standards. This conservative approach undermines potential advancements and locks defense forces into fossil fuel dependencies that other nations are swiftly moving away from.
The imperative is clear: Europe must choose between adhering to antiquated systems or investing in contemporary clean technologies that meet future security demands. With planned military investments nearing €800 billion, the European Union is at a pivotal juncture where decisive action can lead to energy independence and sustainable military practices while securing economic and geopolitical stability.
The future of military power hinges on Europe’s ability to embrace a fossil-free military. By advancing clean technologies and securing energy independence, Europe can bolster both its national security and economic resilience. Transitioning to sustainable defense practices not only facilitates operational readiness but also positions Europe competitively in the foundational technological race against adversaries like China. Conversely, failure to adapt could result in increased vulnerabilities and strategic shortcomings. Europe faces a clear choice: lead in clean military innovation or risk falling behind in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
Original Source: www.forbes.com
