Don't be fooled, the biodiversity crisis is a global security crisis | African Arguments
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Environmental degradation is a key driver of insecurity. To achieve peace, we must protect the planet and finance these efforts accordingly. Earlier this week, nine philanthropic organisations launched the “Protecting Our Planet Challenge” and pledged $5 billion to protect and conserve 30% of the planet by 2030 (30×30). This can be achieved by supporting protected areas and indigenous stewardship of their territories. This marks the largest-ever philanthropic commitment to nature conservation. Whilst this may not naturally lead you to consider the implications for peace and security, this type of financial commitment could play an important role in the global effort […]

It is no coincidence that 6 of the 10 largest UN-led peacekeeping operations currently exist in areas highly exposed to the impact of climate change; Mali, Central African Republic, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo to name a few. Environmental degradation and subsequent biodiversity loss lead directly to a collapse in food and water supplies, increased spread of diseases, reduced air quality, and a dramatic reduction in quality of life – which in turn significantly exacerbate security risks including violent conflict.