NATO Climate Initiative

Launched in 2021 by NATO, this transformative initiative presents a comprehensive strategy to address climate change as a critical security challenge. Stemming from the Climate Change and Security Action Plan, it confronts a world marked by environmental crises, rising temperatures, and resource conflicts. It calls for renewed cooperation among Allies and partners, integrating mitigation efforts with security operations to ensure a sustainable future, emphasizing the urgency of collective action to reduce emissions, enhance resilience, and uphold global stability for all.

Climate as a Security Challenge

The NATO Climate Initiative emerges at a critical moment for global security, as recognized in the Climate Change and Security Action Plan. The stability that once underpinned international cooperation is threatened by climate change, with rising temperatures exacerbating resource scarcity and conflict. Global greenhouse gas emissions continue to soar, with military activities contributing significantly—often unaccounted for in national targets. NATO’s 2022 Strategic Concept identifies climate change as a defining challenge, prompting action to integrate environmental sustainability into defense strategies.

Anchored in NATO’s commitment to collective defense, this initiative addresses urgent crises: 1.1°C global temperature rise drives extreme weather, displacing millions; and over 50% of NATO missions now face climate-related risks. Regions like the Arctic experience rapid ice melt, intensifying geopolitical tensions. The 2025 NATO Summit aims to deepen these efforts, building on NATO’s legacy of adapting to new threats while addressing climate-induced instability.

Climate change amplifies security risks, with resource competition fueling conflicts in areas like the Sahel. NATO’s operational energy demands—often reliant on fossil fuels—contribute to emissions, necessitating a shift to sustainable practices. The initiative highlights successful collaborations, such as NATO’s energy efficiency programs.

Emerging threats—cyberattacks on energy infrastructure, climate-driven migration, and extreme weather impacting military operations—pose novel challenges. NATO notes that 80% of its bases are at risk from climate hazards. Climate change also exacerbates inequalities, with only 12% of SDG targets on track by 2030.

International frameworks face strain, as climate impacts undermine stability. NATO’s role in climate security is vital, rooted in its 2022 Strategic Concept, pushing for integrated approaches to mitigate emissions and enhance resilience.

This moment demands action. NATO’s past successes—adapting to geopolitical shifts, fostering cooperation—contrast with today’s climate-driven threats. Allies must navigate this transition, balancing security with sustainability, as the initiative urges a recommitment to climate action.

Download GHG Emissions Methodology

Strategies for Climate Mitigation

The NATO Climate Initiative hinges on three core strategies—Emission Reduction, Energy Efficiency, and Resilience Building—as detailed in the Climate Change and Security Action Plan. These strategies underpin NATO’s approach to mitigating climate change while ensuring security.

Emission Reduction

NATO’s 2023 methodology tracks emissions from military operations, targeting a 20% reduction by 2030.

Energy Efficiency

Through the Green Defence Framework, NATO reduces fuel use in operations, saving 15% in energy costs.

Resilience Building

NATO adapts bases to withstand climate impacts, with 80% now resilient to extreme weather.

Emission reduction is critical as military activities contribute significantly to global emissions. NATO’s transparency initiatives foster accountability.

Emission Reduction in Action

NATO’s energy transition programs have reduced emissions by 10% since 2020 through renewable energy adoption.

Energy Efficiency Examples

NATO’s Smart Energy Team has implemented solar-powered bases, reducing operational costs.

Resilience Building Cases

NATO’s bases in the Arctic are fortified against melting permafrost, ensuring operational continuity.

These strategies tackle a world where emissions threaten security, energy demands strain resources, and resilience is tested by climate impacts. They build on NATO’s commitment to sustainability.

Explore Green Defence Framework

Recommendations for Climate Action

The initiative offers actionable recommendations to operationalize climate mitigation, from reducing emissions to enhancing resilience. It urges urgent steps like adopting renewable energy, supported by NATO’s 2023 methodology.

Renewable Energy Adoption

Integrating solar and wind energy into bases reduces emissions by 10% annually.

Climate-Resilient Operations

NATO adapts operations to climate risks, protecting 80% of bases from extreme weather.

Emission Tracking

NATO’s methodology tracks emissions, setting reduction targets.

Other actions include scaling up low-carbon technologies, enhancing energy efficiency in military operations, and strengthening climate resilience through training and infrastructure upgrades.

Low-Carbon Tech

NATO invests in electric vehicles for logistics, cutting emissions by 5% yearly.

Training Programs

Climate-focused training ensures operational readiness in adverse conditions.

Infrastructure Upgrades

NATO upgrades bases for energy efficiency, reducing costs.

These actions require commitment and resources, integrating sustainability with security to address climate change’s impacts.

View 2024 Climate Impact Assessment

Partnerships for Climate Action

NATO collaborates with international organizations, Allies, and partners to enhance its climate initiatives, sharing knowledge and resources to achieve a sustainable future.

Allied Cooperation

NATO Allies share best practices, with 20 countries adopting green technologies.

International Bodies

Partnerships with the EU enhance climate resilience.

Regional Partners

Collaboration with the African Union addresses climate risks in conflict zones.

NATO’s partnerships are crucial for scaling climate solutions, with joint projects reducing emissions by 5% across initiatives since 2021.

Explore Climate Change Best Practices

Future Goals and Reforms

NATO aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, modernizing operations and policies for a sustainable future.

Net Zero by 2050

NATO targets net zero emissions, scaling up renewable energy use.

Policy Updates

Revising energy policies to align with climate goals.

Innovation

Investing in green tech for military operations.

These reforms ensure NATO remains agile in addressing climate challenges, aligning sustainability with security priorities.

A Call to Action

This initiative offers hope amid crisis. Facing climate, security, and resource threats, NATO and its partners must act now — sustainability, resilience, and cooperation guiding us to a stable, green future. The NATO Climate Initiative is our chance to reforge climate frameworks, enhance strategies and extend partnerships worldwide, working towards a sustainable future.

Read the Full NATO Climate Action Plan

Publications

28 Feb. 2025

Assessment of the technologies that could increase the use of distributed energy generation, thereby reducing the impact of military strikes on centralized power generation facilities in Ukraine and enhancing the security and resilience of energy supply in Ukraine

The article discusses the significant impact of Russia's military campaign in Uk...

19 Jun. 2024

Energy storage and energy efficiency as the key enablers of greater use of renewable energy in electricity consumption

Renewable energy sources and increased energy efficiency are essential to achiev...

10 Jun. 2024

Executive Summary of the field experiment conducted by NATO ENSEC COE in the summer of 2023, utilizing Hydrogen Fuel Cell technology within the military environment

The experiment confirmed the potential of portable hydrogen fuel cells to enhanc...

17 May. 2024