Climate Change And Resource Conflict
As the global climate changes, scientists warn that the potential for conflict over scare natural resources will increase. Climate change will impact the availability of land and water resources, as well as the food-producing capacity of marine, agricultural and forest ecosystems. According to the CIA's National Intelligence Council, as many as 800 million more people will face water or cropland scarcity in the next 15 years.Access to and availability of the freshwater resources all human beings has historically been a source of conflict across countries and cultures. Already, conflicts over water resources are linked with persistent poverty and instability in the Middle East, Africa and Asia. As climate change continues and accelerates, the likelihood of resource conflicts will grow as well. With foresight and cooperation, the international community can anticipate and help prevent escalation of such conflicts. But it is possible that climate-induced resource conflicts will spark violent struggles within and among states.
Additional Information
- Global Trends 2025: The National Intelligence Council's 2025 Project
- Climate change and conflict - International Crisis Group
